A landmark £24 billion regeneration partnership between Lendlease and The Crown Estate is set to transform major urban locations across London and Birmingham, creating tens of thousands of new homes alongside world-class commercial, science and innovation space. The newly established Impact Partnership Joint Venture represents one of the UK’s largest
One of London’s largest office-to-purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) conversion projects has taken a major step forward after a £113 million funding package was secured to transform the long-vacant Royal Albert Dock office complex into a thriving student community. Specialist lender Firma Partners has agreed the financing with DPK Group, enabling
Group Metropolitan has successfully completed a workplace refurbishment for a leading financial services client, delivering new front-of-house and meeting facilities on Level 18 of a 32-storey landmark high-rise building in Canary Wharf. Acting as Principal Contractor under a Design and Build delivery, Group Metropolitan provided Project Management, Design and Commissioning
The Government Property Agency’s (GPA) Birmingham hub has become the first public sector building in the world to retain a coveted quality mark. Its flagship site at 23 Stephenson Street has secured Leesman+ accreditation – a prestigious global workplace experience rating – for the second time, demonstrating a sustained commitment
The Lancashire-based authorised Yanmar CE dealer has turned one of Yanmar’s most compact excavators into a standout fundraising prize, with the winner set to be announced at the Great Eccleston Show. Mellor Plant UK, Yanmar Compact Equipment EMEA (Yanmar)’s authorised dealer for the North West of England, is giving one
Japanese sanitaryware equipment expert TOTO has been selected by the Musée du Louvre to equip the restroom facilities of the new Gallery of Five Continents, reinforcing its longstanding expertise in delivering high-performance sanitary solutions for some of the world’s most prestigious cultural institutions The appointment builds on TOTO’s existing relationship with
A public consultation is beginning on the masterplan for Euston, signalling fresh momentum for one of the most significant regeneration opportunities in central London. Running until 8 August, the consultation marks a major step forward in plans to transform the area, driving long-term, sustainable growth for the UK, London and
One of the UK’s largest regeneration partnerships has officially moved into delivery, with Lendlease and The Crown Estate completing their landmark £24bn joint venture to unlock thousands of new homes and millions of square feet of commercial development across London and Birmingham. The newly formed Impact Partnership Joint Venture establishes
Liverpool’s vision to create a new commercial destination in the heart of the city has moved a significant step closer after VINCI Construction was appointed to deliver the first phase of the landmark Pall Mall regeneration scheme. Selected by joint developers Liverpool City Council and Kier Property following a competitive
Vistry, the UK’s leading provider of mixed-tenure homes, has leased a 17,000 sq ft office at Skypark near Exeter. The business historically operated from two separate offices in Exeter, but they will now be located in a Grade A, 17,143 sq ft office at One Tiger Moth Road at Skypark.
A landmark £24 billion regeneration partnership between Lendlease and The Crown Estate is set to transform major urban locations across London and Birmingham, creating tens of thousands of new homes alongside world-class commercial, science and innovation space. The newly established Impact Partnership Joint Venture represents one of the UK’s largest long-term regeneration programmes and will initially focus on three flagship developments at Euston, Silvertown and Stratford Cross in London. Together, these schemes are expected to deliver around 9,000 new homes and more than 7 million sq ft of commercial, research and innovation space, supporting economic growth while helping address housing demand. For the construction sector, the announcement signals a significant pipeline of work spanning residential development, commercial construction, infrastructure, public realm, building services and sustainable placemaking over the coming decade. The construction programme is already moving forward. Work is scheduled to begin in September on 326 affordable homes at the 60-acre Silvertown regeneration scheme in East London, marking the first major delivery phase of the partnership. Meanwhile, plans continue to progress at Euston, where a planning application for the comprehensive redevelopment is expected to be submitted in spring 2027. The partnership has also confirmed that a second phase of expansion will see two further landmark regeneration projects join the joint venture later this summer. Birmingham Smithfield and Thamesmead Waterfront will increase the overall programme to approximately 27,500 new homes and almost 10 million sq ft of commercial floorspace, significantly extending the partnership’s development pipeline. Infrastructure works at Birmingham Smithfield are expected to commence later this year, with temporary market facilities due to open early next year before construction of the first residential buildings begins in 2027. The regeneration will transform one of Birmingham’s most strategically important city centre sites into a vibrant mixed-use destination combining homes, workplaces, retail, leisure and public spaces. The projects reflect the growing emphasis on large-scale mixed-use regeneration, where residential neighbourhoods are integrated with commercial, science and innovation districts to create sustainable, connected communities. Significant investment in transport infrastructure, public realm, green spaces and social infrastructure will also form an integral part of the long-term vision. By combining the development expertise of Lendlease with The Crown Estate’s long-term investment strategy, the Impact Partnership Joint Venture is expected to accelerate the delivery of complex regeneration projects while attracting further institutional investment into the UK’s property and construction sectors. As construction activity gathers pace across multiple sites, the partnership is set to generate extensive opportunities throughout the construction supply chain, supporting contractors, consultants, manufacturers and specialist trades while delivering new homes, commercial space and employment opportunities that will help shape the future of several of the UK’s most important urban regeneration locations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
One of London’s largest office-to-purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) conversion projects has taken a major step forward after a £113 million funding package was secured to transform the long-vacant Royal Albert Dock office complex into a thriving student community. Specialist lender Firma Partners has agreed the financing with DPK Group, enabling the redevelopment of approximately 450,000 sq ft of vacant commercial space into 1,085 high-quality student bedrooms. The completed scheme is expected to have a gross development value (GDV) of around £300 million. Located within the Royal Docks regeneration area in East London, the development will breathe new life into 20 office buildings originally constructed by Brookfield Multiplex for Chinese developer ABP. Following the collapse of ABP in 2022, the waterfront complex has remained largely vacant despite its prime location and excellent transport connections. Rather than undertaking extensive demolition and reconstruction, the project will focus predominantly on internal refurbishment and fit-out works, with no significant structural alterations required. This approach not only reduces construction costs and programme risk but also supports sustainability objectives by retaining the existing building fabric and significantly reducing embodied carbon compared with a new-build development. Construction is expected to take around 18 months, with practical completion targeted for the third quarter of 2027. For the construction and property sectors, the scheme highlights the growing importance of adaptive reuse as developers respond to changing market demands. With office vacancy rates remaining elevated in some locations and continued pressure on student accommodation across London, converting existing commercial assets into residential uses is becoming an increasingly attractive regeneration strategy. The Royal Albert Dock development also reinforces the ongoing regeneration of East London’s Royal Docks, one of the capital’s largest Opportunity Areas, where significant investment continues to reshape the district into a mixed-use destination combining residential, commercial, education and leisure facilities. Victor Librae, Chief Executive of Firma Partners, described the project as an outstanding opportunity that addresses London’s shortage of quality student accommodation while unlocking the value of a strategically located waterfront asset with significant regeneration potential. David Maxwell, Founder of DPK Group, said the site’s excellent connectivity and scale made it ideally suited to becoming a student-led campus environment, adding that the tailored funding solution would support the project’s successful delivery. As demand for PBSA continues to outstrip supply across many university cities, the Royal Albert Dock conversion demonstrates how innovative financing, sustainable refurbishment and adaptive reuse can work together to regenerate underutilised commercial assets while helping to meet the evolving accommodation needs of London’s growing student population. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Group Metropolitan has successfully completed a workplace refurbishment for a leading financial services client, delivering new front-of-house and meeting facilities on Level 18 of a 32-storey landmark high-rise building in Canary Wharf. Acting as Principal Contractor under a Design and Build delivery, Group Metropolitan provided Project Management, Design and Commissioning Management. The project involved the refurbishment of 43,000 sq ft to create a premium suite of client-facing facilities capable of supporting up to 450 occupants. The completed space provides a flexible and highly technical environment designed to meet the operational, acoustic and sustainability requirements of a modern workplace. “This is a proud moment for Group Metropolitan, marking the completion of one of our highest‑value turnkey projects to date, with a client we’ve proudly partnered with for 40 years. This achievement is another milestone in our ongoing journey in the fit out sector, showcasing our expertise and opening the door to future ambitious projects.” The revitalised space, developed to Stage 3 by Gensler, was developed around ‘Metropolis Bloom’ capturing the dynamic interplay between London’s urban energy and the moments of natural release found within its textured landscape. Industrial influences with a natural and warm material palette intertwine, shaping a workplace that is both invigorating and restorative. Each space was developed as main destinations, each supporting both focus and connection. Carefully curated furniture arrangements, material palettes, and visual elements infuse the space with a distinct character, one that balances the city’s fast-paced rhythm with an underlying sense of calm. Acting as Principal Contractor under a Design and Build delivery, Group Metropolitan provided Project Management, Design and Commissioning Management. The project involved the refurbishment of 43,000 sq ft to create a premium suite of client-facing facilities capable of supporting up to 450 occupants. The completed space provides a flexible and highly technical environment designed to meet the operational, acoustic and sustainability requirements of a modern workplace. “This is a proud moment for Group Metropolitan, marking the completion of one of our highest‑value turnkey projects to date, with a client we’ve proudly partnered with for 40 years. This achievement is another milestone in our ongoing journey in the fit out sector, showcasing our expertise and opening the door to future ambitious projects.” The revitalised space, developed to Stage 3 by Gensler, was developed around ‘Metropolis Bloom’ capturing the dynamic interplay between London’s urban energy and the moments of natural release found within its textured landscape. Industrial influences with a natural and warm material palette intertwine, shaping a workplace that is both invigorating and restorative. Each space was developed as main destinations, each supporting both focus and connection. Carefully curated furniture arrangements, material palettes, and visual elements infuse the space with a distinct character, one that balances the city’s fast-paced rhythm with an underlying sense of calm. The final design arrangement delivers comprehensive front-of-house client meeting spaces, including 24 large meeting rooms, executive boardroom with adjoining ante-room and dedicated dining facilities, a 104-seat conference suite with an integrated AV control room, various break-out areas, open-plan café and bar space opening into the 6 storey atrium, a fully equipped commercial kitchen and pantry facilities, new WC provision, two communications rooms and three AV rack rooms. Technically the project included new lighting control systems, BMS, automated weather-controlled blinds and curtains, and automatic fire curtains throughout the floor. Cooling is provided by a VAV system, supported by Air Towers to the presentation suite and CRAC units within the technical plant rooms. Specialist lighting design was implemented throughout the entire space, designed by WSP, who also delivered the Clients Stage 3 design. The project was originally tendered under a two-stage contract, with Group Metropolitan proposing an ambitious and aggressive completion within a year including delivery of the full stage 4 design. Following the successful award of the contract, the programme was impacted by a one-month delay to the Stage 3 design release due to a change in brief, impacting package procurement and followed by approximately £2 million of client change. Despite these challenges, Group Metropolitan maintained the original tendered completion date to protect the client’s operational requirements. This was achieved through fast-track design delivery using Group Metropolitan’s extensive in-house team and a non-contractual approach to reacting and implementing change, with much of the project delivered on a 24/7 basis. Significant spatial constraints at high level, combined with changing fire control regulations and the absence of verified fire encasement solutions at the time of construction, required multiple re-routing and re-coordination of distribution services. Detailed BIM modelling was essential to the delivery strategy, allowing fast track design programming to avoid clash issues during the construction progress. The project also demanded a very high acoustic performance standard. Slab-to-slab partitions were installed throughout the space, and penetrations were carefully coordinated and treated to ensure compliance with the specified acoustic criteria. This project scheme gains BREEAM Outstanding and WELL accreditations, with key sustainability measures, including weather station controlled automated blinds to manage solar gain and maximise natural daylight, and the re-use and recycling of materials throughout the project’s process. “This was a challenging project from the outset with high specification products, demanding design criteria, and a tight programme with a known opening date which simply could not move. The final product, delivered on time, and within budget is nothing short of exceptional and I hope this will be a highly sought after space for our client for years to come. We believe what has been achieved would not have been possible without the continuous collaboration of a fantastic client team and Group Metropolitan’s ‘can do’ approach that we always bring to our projects. I am very proud of the team for what has been delivered on a project which was a pleasure to be involved with from start to finish.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Government Property Agency’s (GPA) Birmingham hub has become the first public sector building in the world to retain a coveted quality mark. Its flagship site at 23 Stephenson Street has secured Leesman+ accreditation – a prestigious global workplace experience rating – for the second time, demonstrating a sustained commitment to delivering an exceptional workplace experience for civil servants. Carly Ersser, Director of Workplace Services at the GPA, said: “We are incredibly proud that 23 Stephenson Street has secured Leesman+ accreditation for a second time. Surveying the people who work from our buildings gives us invaluable insights that directly inform how we design our services and continuously improve the workplace experience. “While this historic milestone is a fantastic achievement, we recognise there is always more work to be done. This rigorous feedback helps us target our resources to where they are needed most, ensuring we make a meaningful difference to civil servants working productively and happily from the office.” Leesman+ is a globally recognised certification awarded to top-tier workplaces that achieve outstanding employee satisfaction scores. To earn the accreditation, buildings must undergo rigorous, independent surveying and analysis of their features, services, and infrastructure. The GPA government hub at Stephenson Street first achieved this benchmark in 2023. The Birmingham office hosts 1,700 civil servants from more than 20 government departments and agencies. It was transformed from disused retail and commercial space into a modern, digitally-connected, and inclusive workplace in 2022, and now features a variety of spaces to support productivity, collaboration and wellbeing aligned to the Government Workplace Design Guide. Dr Peggie Rothe, Chief Insights and Research Officer at Leesman, said: “Leesman+ certifications have been awarded to just three per cent of the more than 10,400 buildings Leesman has assessed worldwide, and only 10 per cent of those have been re-certified. The GPA’s Stephenson Street Hub is the only public sector building globally to achieve Leesman+ re-certification, testament to the agency’s programmatic, data-led approach to delivering and sustaining exceptional workplace experience.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Lancashire-based authorised Yanmar CE dealer has turned one of Yanmar’s most compact excavators into a standout fundraising prize, with the winner set to be announced at the Great Eccleston Show. Mellor Plant UK, Yanmar Compact Equipment EMEA (Yanmar)’s authorised dealer for the North West of England, is giving one UK resident the chance to win a specially wrapped Yanmar SV08 in a summer raffle for Cancer Research UK. The dealership has transformed the micro excavator into a vivid magenta and rose-pink showpiece – bright, bold and impossible to miss. The custom SV08 forms the centrepiece of a campaign inspired by a charity close to the hearts of Mellor Plant UK’s team, while bringing customers and the wider community together in support of Cancer Research UK’s work to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer. Over the past 50 years, the charity’s research has helped double cancer survival in the UK. “This is a cause that means a great deal to our team and many of the families and customers we work with,” shares Gordon Hayes, Director at Mellor Plant. “We wanted to do something positive that would bring people together while raising money for an incredibly important charity. With Yanmar’s support, the SV08 felt like the perfect machine to place at the heart of the campaign.” A pink machine with a powerful purpose The SV08’s bold new look draws on Cancer Research UK’s distinctive visual identity. Its magenta and rose-pink wrap features the charity’s recognisable dotted ‘C’ motif, creating an immediate connection to the cause. Finished with crisp white detailing, the design turns one of Yanmar’s smallest excavators into a striking symbol of hope and collective support. Behind the wrap is a practical machine built for confined working environments. Weighing 1,035kg, the SV08 has an adjustable width of 680 – 840mm and a maximum digging depth of 1,460mm. Its narrow access and extendable undercarriage are ideally suited to landscaping, utilities, agricultural work and residential construction, making it a fitting prize for Mellor Plant UK’s customers across Lancashire and the wider North West. “We are proud to support Mellor Plant UK with this inspiring fundraising initiative,” says Phil Elam, Yanmar UK Dealer Manager. “It reflects the close relationship between our dealers and the communities they serve, while showing how our network can make a positive contribution beyond the job site.” A summer in the spotlight The custom SV08 is already attracting attention this summer, including at Hillhead, the UK’s largest quarrying, construction and recycling exhibition, held last week at Hillhead Quarry in Buxton, Derbyshire. It will next appear at the Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show from 3–5 July at Salesbury Hall, Ribchester, before the raffle reaches its finale at the Great Eccleston Show on 18–19 July 2026, where the winner will be drawn on stage. As a highlight of Lancashire’s rural calendar, the two-day event will put the campaign in front of farmers, contractors, machinery enthusiasts and families from across the North of England, with Mellor Plant UK attending and the SV08 on display. Visitors will have one final chance to support the campaign before one lucky entrant takes it home. How to enter Tickets cost £20 and the raffle is open to UK residents only. Entries can be purchased at Mellor Plant UK’s headquarters, via WhatsApp on 01254 812937 or by emailing sales@mellorplantuk.co.uk. Full terms and conditions are available at www.mellorplantuk.co.uk. All proceeds will support Cancer Research UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Japanese sanitaryware equipment expert TOTO has been selected by the Musée du Louvre to equip the restroom facilities of the new Gallery of Five Continents, reinforcing its longstanding expertise in delivering high-performance sanitary solutions for some of the world’s most prestigious cultural institutions The appointment builds on TOTO’s existing relationship with the museum, following an earlier installation in the reception areas beneath the Pyramid. For the Gallery of Five Continents, which opened on 3 December 2025 in the Denon Wing, TOTO supplied toilets, urinals, washbasins and sensor-operated faucets. With visitor comfort and operational excellence central to the museum experience, TOTO was selected for its ability to deliver durable, hygienic and easy-to-maintain sanitary solutions suited to intensive public use. The products combine robust construction, water-saving performance and ease of maintenance with a discreet, contemporary aesthetic. Among the technologies specified are TOTO’s CeFIONtect ceramic glaze, which helps prevent dirt and bacteria from adhering to surfaces, and Tornado Flush technology, which delivers powerful, efficient flushing while reducing water consumption. The company’s rimless toilet design further supports hygiene and maintenance by eliminating hard-to-reach areas where dirt, germs and odours can accumulate, enabling faster cleaning and reducing the need for detergents. The project reflects TOTO’s continued commitment to supporting leading cultural, hospitality and public institutions with sanitary solutions that combine performance, sustainability and long-term reliability. Accessible via the Porte des Lions entrance, the Gallery of Five Continents is the result of a landmark collaboration between the Musée du Louvre and the Musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac. Bringing together 130 major pieces of our global cultural heritage, this new presentation draws connections between artworks, objects, artefacts, artistic forms, and symbols which span geographies and cultures, interweaving manifold narratives of art and human creativity. Founded in 1793, the Musée du Louvre houses one of the world’s largest collections of art and cultural heritage, with its holdings organised across nine departments. It remains the most visited museum in the world, welcoming around nine million visitors annually. Yu Takagi, General Manager at TOTO France, said: “The Musée du Louvre represents the highest standards of cultural stewardship and visitor experience, values that strongly resonate with our philosophy at TOTO. “Throughout our work, we place great importance on creating environments that make people feel welcomed, comfortable and respected, often through details that remain almost invisible. We are honoured to continue our collaboration with the museum and to support the Gallery of Five Continents with solutions that combine advanced technology, exceptional hygiene and enduring quality.“For us, this project is not simply about providing sanitary equipment – it’s about contributing to a seamless and positive experience for every visitor who passes through these remarkable spaces.” Key Information: Name: The Louvre Museum Category: Museum Renovated Area: Five Continents Gallery Completion Date: November 2025 Museum Size: 72,000 m² Selected TOTO Products: GP wall-hung WC, urinal, automatic faucet, CS rectangular washbasin Website: – http://www.louvre.fr Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A public consultation is beginning on the masterplan for Euston, signalling fresh momentum for one of the most significant regeneration opportunities in central London. Running until 8 August, the consultation marks a major step forward in plans to transform the area, driving long-term, sustainable growth for the UK, London and the local communities of Camden. Building on renewed progress across the wider Euston programme, the newly established Euston Delivery Company is leading work to deliver a modern, integrated transport gateway, unlocking the site’s full potential for growth, while Lendlease is bringing forward regeneration plans for the area. As part of this, Lendlease will engage with local people through a programme of drop-in events, workshops and activities across Euston, giving communities the opportunity to help shape the plans ahead of a planning application next year. Construction of the first buildings is expected to begin in 2028. Located in the heart of London’s Knowledge Quarter, Euston is one of the last major development opportunities in central London. Once complete it is expected to create 30,000 jobs, reinforcing the area’s role as a hub for innovation, science and education. The project is part of a joint venture between Lendlease and The Crown Estate – the Impact Partnership Joint Venture – which completed earlier this week. The emerging proposals will support a vibrant community with streets lined with workplaces, shops, cafes and restaurants. The opportunity to contribute to this world-leading innovation district will be harnessed through existing local talent and expertise, attracting diverse businesses and providing quality jobs, including through affordable workspace that will support start-ups, small businesses and emerging talent. Wider pavements and green space will create sustainable spaces to live in, work in and enjoy. The masterplan also incorporates up to 1,500 new homes, including affordable homes to help meet local need in Camden. Key proposals include reopening Granby Terrace as a traffic-free bridge and creating safer cycle routes; making it easier and safer to move through the area. Jenny Sawyer, Project Lead, Euston, Lendlease, said: “Euston is one of central London’s most significant growth and regeneration opportunities, and we are now building real momentum behind plans to unlock its potential. Working with our partners, we want to shape a place that delivers lasting benefits – new homes, jobs, public spaces and stronger connections – for existing communities and future generations. Local people know Euston best, and their voices will play a key role in shaping what comes next. We encourage everyone to get involved and help us refine the plans.” The public are invited to give their views on the masterplan by visiting one of the below drop-in events. If unable to attend in-person, the public are invited to provide feedback online by visiting the consultation website from Saturday 11 July: https://www.eustonlondon.co.uk/consultation/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
One of the UK’s largest regeneration partnerships has officially moved into delivery, with Lendlease and The Crown Estate completing their landmark £24bn joint venture to unlock thousands of new homes and millions of square feet of commercial development across London and Birmingham. The newly formed Impact Partnership Joint Venture establishes a long-term development platform focused on delivering some of the country’s most significant mixed-use regeneration schemes. Initially, the partnership will oversee the transformation of Euston, Silvertown and Stratford Cross, creating around 9,000 new homes alongside more than 7 million sq ft of commercial, science and innovation space. The announcement represents a major milestone for the construction and property sectors, providing a significant pipeline of work spanning residential development, commercial offices, life sciences, infrastructure, public realm and sustainable urban regeneration. Construction activity is set to begin almost immediately, with work scheduled to commence in September on the first phase of the 60-acre Silvertown regeneration in East London. This initial package will deliver 326 affordable homes, forming part of a wider mixed-use neighbourhood that will reconnect a long-underutilised section of the Royal Docks with the surrounding community. Elsewhere, plans for the highly anticipated redevelopment of Euston are continuing to progress, with a planning application expected to be submitted in spring 2027. The project is expected to transform one of London’s most strategically important transport hubs into a vibrant mixed-use destination combining homes, commercial space, public realm and enhanced transport connectivity. The partnership’s ambitions extend well beyond the initial three developments. Birmingham Smithfield and Thamesmead Waterfront are expected to join the venture later this year, expanding the overall programme to approximately 27,500 new homes and almost 10 million sq ft of commercial floorspace. Infrastructure works at Birmingham Smithfield are due to begin later this year, with temporary markets opening in early 2027 before construction of the first residential buildings commences. To support delivery, Lendlease and The Crown Estate have established a dedicated development management company responsible for coordinating the complex, multi-phase projects and ensuring consistent standards across the growing portfolio. Andrea Ruckstuhl, Managing Director of Development for UK and Italy at Lendlease, described the launch of the Impact Partnership Joint Venture as a major milestone that creates a long-term platform capable of unlocking some of the UK’s most important regeneration opportunities while delivering lasting value for investors and communities. Dan Labbad, Chief Executive of The Crown Estate, said the partnership would accelerate the delivery of complex regeneration projects while creating a scalable platform capable of bringing forward future housing and commercial developments across the country. For the construction industry, the creation of the Impact Partnership Joint Venture represents a substantial long-term pipeline of opportunities across civil engineering, infrastructure, residential construction, commercial development, sustainability, building services and public realm delivery. As work progresses over the coming decade, the programme is expected to play a significant role in supporting employment, investment and economic growth while delivering high-quality, sustainable places for future generations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Liverpool’s vision to create a new commercial destination in the heart of the city has moved a significant step closer after VINCI Construction was appointed to deliver the first phase of the landmark Pall Mall regeneration scheme. Selected by joint developers Liverpool City Council and Kier Property following a competitive two-stage tender process, VINCI Construction will act as design and build contractor for the £55 million opening phase of the development, marking the start of a wider regeneration programme that will reshape Liverpool’s Commercial Business District. The first phase will deliver high-quality Grade A office accommodation, complemented by ground-floor retail space and a new 0.5-acre public green space, creating an attractive mixed-use environment designed to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses and occupiers. Pall Mall forms a central element of Liverpool City Council’s long-term strategy to strengthen the city’s commercial offering, attract inward investment and support sustainable economic growth by providing premium workspace capable of competing with other major regional business centres. For the construction sector, the appointment represents another significant commercial development project that will generate opportunities across the regional supply chain, supporting specialist contractors, consultants, building services providers and local manufacturers throughout the delivery programme. The project also reflects the continuing demand for flexible, sustainable office developments that combine high-quality workplaces with improved public realm and enhanced amenities. Integrating green space alongside commercial development is increasingly recognised as a key factor in creating healthier, more attractive business environments that support employee wellbeing and encourage investment. Liverpool City Council is working closely with Kier Property to deliver the wider Pall Mall masterplan, which aims to transform the area into a thriving commercial quarter capable of attracting new businesses, creating skilled employment opportunities and strengthening Liverpool’s position as a leading UK regional city. Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, described Pall Mall as a transformational opportunity that will provide the modern commercial space required to support Liverpool’s growing economy. Mark Robinson, Senior Development Director at Kier Property, said the appointment represented an important milestone for the project and reflected the shared ambition to create a vibrant destination for businesses, investment and innovation while delivering lasting economic and social benefits for the city. Gary Hughes, Regional Director for VINCI Building, added that the company was proud to play a role in such a significant regeneration project, highlighting the strength of its regional workforce, established local supply chain and longstanding relationships across Merseyside. As cities continue to invest in high-quality commercial developments that combine modern workplaces with enhanced public spaces, the Pall Mall regeneration is set to become one of Liverpool’s flagship developments, supporting business growth while reinforcing the city’s reputation as an attractive destination for investment, innovation and long-term regeneration. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Vistry, the UK’s leading provider of mixed-tenure homes, has leased a 17,000 sq ft office at Skypark near Exeter. The business historically operated from two separate offices in Exeter, but they will now be located in a Grade A, 17,143 sq ft office at One Tiger Moth Road at Skypark. Leased from Devon County Council, the move will enable Vistry to unite its two regional teams under one roof, bringing 300 employees together to provide a best-in-class service for customers and partners. The EPC A-rated building offers exceptional, state-of-the-art office space situated over three floors and is located within Exeter and East Devon Enterprise Zone’s Skypark, providing easy access to nearby transport hubs. Vistry has long been the largest homebuilder across the South West, with its teams delivering hundreds of new affordable homes in partnership with leading housing providers, including Livewest. In 2026, the combined business expects to deliver 1,400 homes across the region. Peter Tannian, Managing Director of Vistry Devon & Cornwall Regions, said: “This move provides a fantastic opportunity for our South West businesses to become more aligned and ensure we provide the best and most efficient service for our customers and partners. Equally, the exceptional, Grade A office space at One Tiger Moth provides a great opportunity for our teams to collaborate and ensure best practice is being adopted across the business.” Councillor Simon Clist, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Assets and Resources, and Chair of Skypark Development Partnership LLP, commented:“We are delighted to welcome Vistry Group to Exeter Skypark. Securing a leading house builder on a long-term lease is a powerful endorsement of Skypark’s quality and appeal. Skypark is setting a new benchmark for sustainable, people focused business environments, not just in Exeter, but across the UK. It is a vibrant, beautifully designed employment site to support businesses to grow and thrive.” Councillor Paul Hayward, Portfolio Holder for Assets and Economy at East Devon District Council and representing Exeter and East Devon Enterprise Zone, said: “We are delighted to welcome Vistry to Skypark, one of the four key sites within the Exeter and East Devon Enterprise Zone. This is a strong vote of confidence in the quality of the business environment we are creating here and in Skypark’s continued appeal as a location for ambitious, growing businesses. Vistry’s arrival brings hundreds of employees together in one place and further strengthens Skypark’s role as a major employment destination for the area.” Vistry was advised by JLL and Hector Pearce. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals