Latimer, the development arm of Clarion Housing Group, has appointed JJ Rhatigan as the principal contractor to build 296 new homes at the Twyford Abbey development in Ealing. The project will include 50% affordable housing and the restoration of a Grade II-listed walled garden for community use. JJ Rhatigan will
Birmingham City Council has submitted a planning application to regenerate Druids Heath, proposing the construction of approximately 3,500 new energy-efficient homes. The development will also include enhanced green spaces, improved infrastructure, and revitalised commercial and community areas. A key focus of the project is the provision of affordable housing, with
The redevelopment of the former St Ann’s Hospital site in South Tottenham has reached a significant milestone, with the topping out of 240 new homes. Peabody and development partner The Hill Group celebrated the event on Friday 28 February, joined by Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development, Tom Copley,
The Hill Group is set to unveil St George’s Place on March 15, 2025—a collection of three, four, and five-bedroom homes just a stone’s throw from Southwold, one of Suffolk’s most sought-after seaside towns. Famous for its iconic pier, colourful beach huts, and pristine coastline, Southwold offers an unparalleled lifestyle
Vistry Group and Bloor Homes are joining forces to create a new community at Leighton West in Crewe, delivering 791 homes as part of a major development that aligns with Cheshire East’s Local Plan. Vistry will build 408 of the homes on the site. Of these, 208 will be forward-sold
GMI Construction Group has celebrated the topping out of its £27 million contract to develop the Mabgate Campus, marking a significant step in transforming the former derelict site into a modern educational hub. Commissioned by Luminate Education Group, the project will provide 70,000 sq. ft of new learning space, enhancing
Liverpool City Council has launched a public consultation on proposed improvements to the Chinatown area, focusing on Great George’s Square. The council, working with community groups and the University of Liverpool Architecture School, has developed plans to attract visitors, investment, and create an enhanced neighbourhood. The project’s centrepiece is the
GRAHAM has been appointed as the principal contractor for the new pedestrian, cycle, and equestrian bridge over the A10 at Waterbeach, Cambridge. The project, commissioned by Urban&Civic, aims to improve sustainable travel options between the new Waterbeach development, the Science Park, and Cambridge City Centre. The new bridge will provide
Persimmon Homes Wessex has submitted an outline planning application for the construction of up to 624 new homes in the Grove and Wantage area, further expanding its Wellington Gate development. The proposed development, located to the north-west of Grove, will be adjacent to the existing Wellington Gate site. In addition
Castlemere Developments has officially broken ground on a new residential project consisting of six luxury four-bedroom townhouses in Dulwich. The Windsor-based developer, known for its portfolio of high-end properties across London, has started groundworks on the site of a former doctor’s surgery on Melbourne Grove. The project is expected to
Latimer, the development arm of Clarion Housing Group, has appointed JJ Rhatigan as the principal contractor to build 296 new homes at the Twyford Abbey development in Ealing. The project will include 50% affordable housing and the restoration of a Grade II-listed walled garden for community use. JJ Rhatigan will commence full-scale construction following the completion of initial groundworks. The development will also feature the restoration of the historic Twyford Abbey building into 30 new homes, in partnership with Picture Property Developments, preserving its architectural heritage. RIBA Stirling Prize-winning architect Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM) designed the low-rise development, which prioritizes sustainability and heritage. The project will incorporate renewable energy through rooftop photovoltaic panels and Air Source Heat Pumps for heating and hot water, reducing CO2 emissions. The Abbey’s 1.2-acre South Lawn will also be reopened for public use. Richard Cook, Chief Development Officer at Clarion Housing Group, said: “We are pleased to appoint JJ Rhatigan as the principal contractor for this landmark development. We have successfully worked with them on previous projects, and their strong focus on safety and community investment aligns with our vision for the Twyford Abbey site. This contract represents another key milestone in our commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable homes while preserving the historical significance of the site.” Tom Neylon, UK Managing Director at JJ Rhatigan, added: “We are delighted to have been chosen as the principal contractor for the Twyford Abbey development. This project offers a unique opportunity to blend contemporary housing solutions with the careful restoration of an important heritage site. We look forward to working with Latimer to deliver a high-quality, sustainable community.” Construction is set to begin in March, with the first homes expected to be completed by 2027. The development aims to provide much-needed housing and revitalize the area. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Birmingham City Council has submitted a planning application to regenerate Druids Heath, proposing the construction of approximately 3,500 new energy-efficient homes. The development will also include enhanced green spaces, improved infrastructure, and revitalised commercial and community areas. A key focus of the project is the provision of affordable housing, with the council committing to building around 1,785 affordable homes, representing 51% of the total development. Of these, 400 homes will be built directly by the council for social rent. The remaining affordable homes will be delivered through a partnership agreement with a developer and a Registered Provider, with the partnership expected to be finalised in early 2027. Councillor Jayne Francis, cabinet member for housing and homelessness, said: “I am pleased that we now have a plan in place to deliver a regeneration of Druids Heath and to provide much need new affordable homes to the city. For the past two years, we have been working with the community in Druids Heath to develop a plan to regenerate the area, one that meets the needs of the people who live and work there.” She emphasised the importance of community involvement in shaping the plans and addressing residents’ concerns, particularly regarding timescales and affordability. “Residents have been vital to ensuring this plan delivers for Druids Heath. The most common comment was that the timescales for the plan were too long, so we have changed the plans to deliver faster,” Francis stated. The regeneration project aims to create sustainable and healthier living spaces, aligning with the city’s net zero ambitions. “This regeneration will build the types of homes we need to tackle climate change, reduce residents fuel bills, and contribute to the city’s net zero ambitions,” Francis added. Recognising the potential disruption for residents, the council has pledged to provide independent advisors to homeowners and hold regular drop-in sessions for questions. Furthermore, efforts are being made to explore financial models that will enable existing residents to remain in Druids Heath. “It is really important to the council that everyone who wants to stay in Druids Heath can do so,” Francis concluded. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The redevelopment of the former St Ann’s Hospital site in South Tottenham has reached a significant milestone, with the topping out of 240 new homes. Peabody and development partner The Hill Group celebrated the event on Friday 28 February, joined by Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development, Tom Copley, and representatives from the London Borough of Haringey. The project, known as North Gate Park, is set to deliver up to 995 homes overall, with 60 percent designated as affordable housing. The first phase, currently under construction, will provide 240 homes, including 94 affordable units, along with new green spaces and commercial premises. The first homes are expected to be completed this summer, with the entire development finished in 2031. The development will feature a restored and tripled-in-size Peace Garden, with assistance from the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew to enhance biodiversity. It will also include a children’s play area, electric vehicle charging points, and cycle routes to Harringay Green Lanes station. Seven historic hospital buildings, including the iconic water tower, will be preserved and converted into workspaces and commercial spaces. The project won a Housing Design Award in 2024 for its masterplan. James McMylor, Regional Managing Director for Development in London North for Peabody, said: “North Gate Park is a fantastic example of how regeneration can deliver much-needed homes while creating lasting benefits for the whole community. This development not only provides affordable and high-quality homes but also revitalises a historic site, with new amenities and green spaces that will serve local people for generations to come.” Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor of London for Housing and Residential Development, said: “North Gate Park is a fantastic example of how we can create much-needed new homes while celebrating and preserving the rich history of London’s neighbourhoods. This impressive development will deliver nearly 1,000 new, high-quality homes – 60 per cent of which are genuinely affordable – and a range of amenities, making it a truly inclusive place to live.” Andy Hill OBE, founder and Group Chief Executive of The Hill Group, commented: “Sustainability, heritage and community are at the heart of North Gate Park, blending contemporary homes with beautifully restored historic architecture, green spaces, and outstanding community amenities.” Cllr Sarah Williams, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, said: “This thriving new neighbourhood will deliver hundreds of genuinely affordable homes, 154 of which will be owned by the council, alongside facilities that provide lasting benefits for the whole community. These high quality, energy efficient homes for local people are set in a landscape-led masterplan with hundreds of new trees and enhanced spaces.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Hill Group is set to unveil St George’s Place on March 15, 2025—a collection of three, four, and five-bedroom homes just a stone’s throw from Southwold, one of Suffolk’s most sought-after seaside towns. Famous for its iconic pier, colourful beach huts, and pristine coastline, Southwold offers an unparalleled lifestyle by the sea. St George’s Place presents a rare opportunity to own a new home in such a desirable location, blending modern living with the charm of coastal life. Designed with families in mind, St George’s Place will feature a variety of expertly crafted homes designed to suit different family sizes and lifestyles. From family-friendly streetscapes to properties that border open woodland, the development showcases high-quality architecture and craftsmanship. The exterior of the homes exudes rural charm, with traditional brickwork, weatherboarding, and elegant stone finishes that blend harmoniously with the local vernacular. The use of fine materials and an eye for detail ensure these homes complement the tranquil surroundings beautifully. Southwold, often referred to as the jewel of the Suffolk coast, is known for its vibrant culture, independent shops, galleries, and renowned seafood restaurants. Situated within the Suffolk Heritage Coast, the town is surrounded by stunning sand and shingle beaches, marshes, and reed beds. The area is a haven for wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and wildflowers. Notable nature reserves like the Suffolk Coast National Nature Reserve and the Hen Reedbeds Nature Reserve are nearby, offering protected habitats for a variety of species. Families also have access to Dunwich Heath and the RSPB Minsmere, along with the scenic Dunwich Beach. For outdoor enthusiasts, activities such as fishing, surfing, paddleboarding, and sailing are just some of the ways to stay active and social. The interiors of St George’s Place offer spacious living rooms, sleek shaker-style kitchens with integrated appliances, and luxurious bedrooms and bathrooms. The design maximises open-plan living, with spaces flowing effortlessly between indoor and outdoor areas. Bi-fold patio doors and skylights allow natural light to flood the homes, while energy-efficient features, such as air source heat pumps, high-efficiency double-glazed uPVC windows, and electric car charging points, ensure sustainability. Rebecca Littler, Group Sales and Marketing Director at The Hill Group, said: “Set amidst Suffolk’s spectacular rural and coastal landscapes, St George’s Place boasts an enviable position, with Southwold just five minutes’ drive away. It is rare that new build homes come to the market on the Suffolk coast, and we are anticipating a high level of interest from discerning buyers looking to make this beautiful part of the UK their home.” The development is ideally located for families, with Reydon Primary School, rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted in 2024, just a short walk or drive away. For older children, Saint Felix School in Southwold offers independent day and boarding education for ages two to 18, with a strong focus on academics, sports, and the arts. The area also has access to reputable secondary schools in nearby towns like Bungay, Halesworth, and Lowestoft. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Vistry Group and Bloor Homes are joining forces to create a new community at Leighton West in Crewe, delivering 791 homes as part of a major development that aligns with Cheshire East’s Local Plan. Vistry will build 408 of the homes on the site. Of these, 208 will be forward-sold to affordable housing provider Plus Dane Housing, while the remaining 200 homes will be marketed for sale under Vistry’s Linden Homes and Bovis Homes brands. Bloor Homes will contribute 383 homes to the development, 39 of which will be affordable housing. The new Leighton West neighbourhood will not only provide much-needed housing but also offer a variety of public amenities, including allotments, community orchards, footpaths, cycleways, formal and informal play areas, outdoor gyms, and green corridors. The development will also contribute £5.6 million to enhance local infrastructure and community services. This will fund a new mixed-use local centre with community and leisure facilities, a pub, a children’s day nursery, and space for a new primary school. Additional contributions will support improved cycle links, highway works, NHS services and Travel Plan monitoring. Joe Turner, Managing Director of Vistry Manchester and Cheshire East, commented: “Leighton West will not only address the local demand for high-quality housing, including affordable homes, but will also deliver a host of community benefits – from green spaces to new commercial, retail, and educational facilities – helping to create a vibrant, sustainable neighbourhood for Crewe.” James Clark, Managing Director for Bloor Homes’ North West region, added: “We are very much looking forward to delivering high quality homes, significant green spaces and several other key benefits to the local community in this exciting collaboration with Vistry.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
GMI Construction Group has celebrated the topping out of its £27 million contract to develop the Mabgate Campus, marking a significant step in transforming the former derelict site into a modern educational hub. Commissioned by Luminate Education Group, the project will provide 70,000 sq. ft of new learning space, enhancing teaching and student experience while contributing to the regeneration of the Mabgate area. The development includes a five-storey campus for University Centre Leeds, a new building for Leeds City College’s adult learning provision, and an atrium cafeteria. It also involves the refurbishment of Studio 24, an historic arts and events space. All buildings at Mabgate Campus are designed with sustainability in mind, featuring low carbon heating and energy-efficient measures. David Warren, Group Vice Principal of Development at Luminate Education Group, said, “This milestone marks another step forward in our commitment to delivering high-quality learning environments. The new facilities will replace outdated buildings, providing cutting-edge spaces for University Centre Leeds and Leeds City College adult students.” Ed Weston, Commercial Director, Yorkshire, at GMI Construction, added: “Reaching the topping out stage at Mabgate is a key milestone in this landmark development. As a Leeds-based company, we are proud to contribute to the regeneration of this area while enhancing the facilities in this space. This investment will create outstanding opportunities for students and deliver lasting benefits to the region.” GMI Construction began work on the project last year, with initial phases involving the partial demolition of existing buildings to make way for the new development. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Liverpool City Council has launched a public consultation on proposed improvements to the Chinatown area, focusing on Great George’s Square. The council, working with community groups and the University of Liverpool Architecture School, has developed plans to attract visitors, investment, and create an enhanced neighbourhood. The project’s centrepiece is the installation of two stone lions, donated by the Chinese Consulate General in Manchester. The plans also include: Residents are invited to provide feedback on the junction, playground, and memorial garden proposals. The work is anticipated to be completed in early 2026. The consultation is open until March 31st at liverpool.gov.uk/chinatowndevelopment. Residents can also provide feedback at a community information event at the Black-e on Great George Street on March 4th. The scheme complements broader revitalisation plans for Chinatown, including new homes and businesses on Great George Street and the upcoming Liverpool Baltic Merseyrail station. Cllr Nick Small, Cabinet Member for Economy and Growth, emphasised the city’s pride in its historic Chinatown and the goal of creating a vibrant space for residents and tourists. Chinese Consul General Tang Rui expressed hope that the stone lions would bring prosperity to Chinatown. Ming Wang, Secretary General of Merseyside Chinese Association Joint Action Group, highlighted the community’s connection to Chinatown and welcomed the regeneration plans. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
GRAHAM has been appointed as the principal contractor for the new pedestrian, cycle, and equestrian bridge over the A10 at Waterbeach, Cambridge. The project, commissioned by Urban&Civic, aims to improve sustainable travel options between the new Waterbeach development, the Science Park, and Cambridge City Centre. The new bridge will provide a crucial link between the Waterbeach development and Cambridge City Centre, connecting via the upgraded Mere Way and the proposed new busway. The bridge’s design draws inspiration from Waterbeach’s rich aviation history and the surrounding natural landscape, featuring sculpted edge beams and deck/parapet sections that create a striking silhouette, ensuring it integrates harmoniously with its environment. Work on the A10 project is scheduled to begin in February 2025, with completion expected by early 2026 from GRAHAM. This marks a significant step forward in the development of sustainable infrastructure in the region. Key features of the new bridge include: Andrew Henry, Contracts Director at GRAHAM, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “We are delighted to support the delivery of this significant piece of infrastructure. The new A10 bridge will be a key feature in the community, enhancing sustainable travel and stimulating economic growth. Our team is in the final stages of finalising the programme of works for the bridge, and witnessing its installation will be a remarkable achievement.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Persimmon Homes Wessex has submitted an outline planning application for the construction of up to 624 new homes in the Grove and Wantage area, further expanding its Wellington Gate development. The proposed development, located to the north-west of Grove, will be adjacent to the existing Wellington Gate site. In addition to new homes, the plans include infrastructure for community amenities, such as allotments, youth play areas, public open space, and the expansion of Grove Cemetery. The development also aims to enhance local education by expanding primary school facilities and introducing equipped play areas, creating a more family-friendly environment. The application, initially submitted in 2020, has been revised after extensive discussions with local authorities to better align with community priorities and needs. A key part of the proposal is the inclusion of 35% affordable and social housing, which will be transferred to a housing association partner. This initiative is designed to address the housing shortage in the Vale of White Horse District, where there is currently a waiting list of around 2,000 families. Further financial contributions from the developer to support local services will be determined during the application process. If approved, more detailed applications will follow. The five-star builder is also currently selling two, three, and four-bedroom homes at its existing Wellington Gate site, with prices starting from £284,995. Persimmon recently held a community consultation to gather input on the local hub planned for the new development. Seb Spiller, deputy managing director of Persimmon Homes Wessex, commented on the submission: “Persimmon is very proud of the progress we have made at Wellington Gate and are delighted that our presence is bringing infrastructure to the community and opening up the dream of home ownership to so many local people. “So, we are delighted to have submitted this outline application to bring hundreds of more high-quality, low-cost homes to Wantage and Grove, especially after working closely with the Vale of White Horse District Council and Grove Parish Council to make amendments to the plan.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Castlemere Developments has officially broken ground on a new residential project consisting of six luxury four-bedroom townhouses in Dulwich. The Windsor-based developer, known for its portfolio of high-end properties across London, has started groundworks on the site of a former doctor’s surgery on Melbourne Grove. The project is expected to be completed by September 2025, with each townhouse priced at £1.6 million. Each of the townhouses will offer 1,700 square feet of living space spread across three floors, including a basement and a roof terrace. The properties will feature state-of-the-art smart home technology, German designer kitchens, oak flooring, bespoke lighting, underfloor heating powered by heat pumps and solar panels, as well as electric car charging points. The external areas will include a courtyard with structural glass flooring designed to bring natural light into the basement. Kris Collett, managing director of Castlemere Developments, is confident the townhouses in Dulwich will attract significant interest from potential buyers. He said: “We are creating homes that dovetail perfectly with the location to be the ideal family home. “Given the high quality aspect of these properties combined with the location of Dulwich, which offers an excellent lifestyle, I do expect to see a lot of interest in these six properties. “The area is known for superb schools, easy connections to central London and has that village feel with independent shops and cafes in the midst of the capital.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
