Kenneth Booth
New Technical Director Brings Decades of Industry Insight To Dandara Northern Home Counties

New Technical Director Brings Decades of Industry Insight To Dandara Northern Home Counties

Independent housebuilder Dandara has appointed seasoned industry leader Gary Martin as Technical Director for its Northern Home Counties region. Bringing nearly four decades of housebuilding experience, Gary will lead the region’s technical function – supporting land acquisition, design, planning and delivery with a focus on collaboration, innovation and quality. His

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Senior Siemens executive appointed as Chair of Humber Freeport

Senior Siemens executive appointed as Chair of Humber Freeport

A senior Siemens executive who led two of the Humber region’s biggest inward investments has been appointed as the new Chair of Humber Freeport. Finbarr Dowling, who has driven forward large-scale investments within the region with a total value of £1 billion, will take up the role in October, following

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New southern region sales head

New southern region sales head

Siemens Buildings UK and Ireland has further strengthened its sales team with the appointment of Mark Gutteridge to the position of Area Sales Manager – South, Siemens Buildings Product Sales and Business Development. Gutteridge has been with Siemens for more than 10 years, most recently in the company’s digital industries

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FIS launches ‘500 Word’ Sub-Contract to improve industry practices

FIS launches ‘500 Word’ Sub-Contract to improve industry practices

The Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) has taken another step forward, as part of its ongoing campaign to tackle the growing complexity of construction contracts, by launching a groundbreaking Simplified Sub-Contract built on the ‘500 Word’ principle. This simplified contract is designed to cut through legal jargon, reduce disputes and

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First homes to become available for rent at One Eastside, Birmingham

First homes to become available for rent at One Eastside, Birmingham

Birmingham, Thursday 31st July 2025 – Pension Insurance Corporation (“PIC”), a specialist insurer of defined benefit pension schemes, and Court Collaboration, a Birmingham-based specialist residential property developer, have confirmed Sectional Completion of Tower B at the hotly anticipated One Eastside BTR development in the city. The completed phase means 140

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Mileway agrees 170,000 sq ft lease with Rubies and Smiffys in Liverpool

Mileway agrees 170,000 sq ft lease with Rubies and Smiffys in Liverpool

Mileway, the leading pan-European last mile logistics real estate company, has signed a ten-year lease agreement with Rubies, one of the largest designers, manufacturers and distributors of licensed dress up products in the world, and Smiffys, a leading global manufacturer and distributor of fancy dress costumes, wigs, accessories and make-up,

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Latest Issue
Issue 339 : Apr 2026

Kenneth Booth

UK-listed construction companies issued most profit warnings since the pandemic in first half of 2025

UK-listed construction companies issued most profit warnings since the pandemic in first half of 2025

UK-listed companies in the FTSE Construction and Materials sector issued eight profit warnings during H1 2025, four times the number issued during the same period last year and the highest total since the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, according to EY-Parthenon’s latest Profit Warnings report. Listed firms in the sector issued three profit warnings in Q2, down slightly from the five recorded during the first quarter, which already equalled the total for the whole of 2024. The eight warnings issued in H1 means that Construction and Materials was the FTSE sector to issue the third most profit warnings in the first half of the year, behind only FTSE Industrial Support Services (17) and FTSE Software and Computer Services (16). Tim Vance, EY-Parthenon UK&I Turnaround and Restructuring Partner, said: “The latest data shows that the construction sector, which saw some recovery in 2024, supported by repair and maintenance demand, easing costs and infrastructure investment, is under renewed pressure so far this year. Previous gains are being eroded by the return of cost and demand challenges, which are exposing persistent structural weaknesses. Whilst longer-term supply and demand dynamics should support growth in the sector, there are a number of nearer-term challenges that are impacting contractors and the supply chain. “Regulatory complexity, particularly from the Building Safety Act, continues to slow approvals and disrupt delivery, while labour shortages and the increase in employer National Insurance Contributions are also squeezing margins. Access to bonding and trade credit insurance has been tightening and the sector remains susceptible to shocks. A drop off in demand may ease some of these pressures, but this tends to help main contractors more than subcontractors and suppliers, where financial stress has been concentrated. “In this period of heightened economic uncertainty and an ever-evolving construction landscape, companies that can effectively manage risk, drive innovation and cultivate strong partnerships will be best positioned to succeed.” Impact of policy and geopolitical uncertainty takes hold in Q2 Overall, UK-listed companies issued 121 profit warnings in H1 2025, including 59 during the second quarter. The leading factor behind profit warnings in Q2 was policy change and geopolitical uncertainty, cited in nearly half (46%) of warnings. This marked a significant year-on-year increase from just 4% in Q2 2024, and the highest percentage recorded for this cause in more than 25 years of EY’s analysis. The proportion of profit warnings to cite contract and order cancellations or delays in Q2 remained at a record 40%. One in three warnings (34%) cited tariff-related impacts, including weaker demand, supply chain disruption, and exchange-rate volatility. Jo Robinson, EY-Parthenon Partner and UK&I Turnaround and Restructuring Strategy Leader, added: “The scale of persistent uncertainty and how heavy it continues to weigh on UK businesses is clear. While this uncertainty has been a recurring theme since mid-2024, it has intensified so far this year – driven largely by geopolitical tensions and policy shifts – compounding pressure on both earnings and forecasts. “Whether the rise in profit warnings is cyclical or structural remains to be seen, and we still expect earnings pressure to ebb and flow with the macroeconomic backdrop. As companies operate in a risk and forecasting environment that is challenging to navigate, they must adopt a measured, scenario-based approach that balances both agility and strategic clarity.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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New Technical Director Brings Decades of Industry Insight To Dandara Northern Home Counties

New Technical Director Brings Decades of Industry Insight To Dandara Northern Home Counties

Independent housebuilder Dandara has appointed seasoned industry leader Gary Martin as Technical Director for its Northern Home Counties region. Bringing nearly four decades of housebuilding experience, Gary will lead the region’s technical function – supporting land acquisition, design, planning and delivery with a focus on collaboration, innovation and quality. His appointment comes as Dandara continues to expand across the Northern Home Counties, with several live and upcoming sites in Bedfordshire. Gary began his career as a management trainee at Beazer Homes in Bedford and has held senior technical roles at some of the UK’s largest housebuilders, including Kier, Persimmon, Stamford Homes and Vistry Group. Most recently, he served as Technical Director for Vistry’s East Anglia division, where he played a key role in delivering complex, high-volume developments. Reflecting on his move to Dandara, Gary said: “There’s a real sense of momentum at Dandara – and I wanted to be part of it. From the minute I joined, I was made to feel welcome. There’s a clear commitment to quality, to doing things the right way, and to supporting people across the business. It’s a company with strong values and a great team, and I’m looking forward to playing a role in its continued success. “The housing sector is always evolving, from tighter regulations to shifts in buyer priorities, and technical teams are right at the heart of how we respond. I’m proud to be part of a business that values quality, people and long-term impact.” With a customer-focused approach and consistent 5 Star HBF status, Dandara is known for combining practical design with lasting quality. Gary’s appointment will support the region’s delivery of homes that meet growing local demand, while navigating ongoing industry challenges – from planning delays and regulatory change to skills shortages and rising costs. Simon Pendlebury, Managing Director at Dandara Northern Home Counties, said: “Gary’s experience speaks for itself – he brings deep technical knowledge, local understanding and a strong team ethos. His track record in delivering high-quality developments will be a real asset as we scale up across the region and we’re thrilled to welcome him to the leadership team.” Gary will oversee Dandara Northern Home Counties’ technical department, working across disciplines to streamline processes, support sustainable design, and ensure a joined-up approach to delivery across the region. For more information about Dandara’s Northern Home Counties developments, visit: www.dandara.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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A Review of the Most Significant Construction Projects and Industry Changes This Year

A Review of the Most Significant Construction Projects and Industry Changes This Year

A wave of revolutionary projects is sweeping through the UK construction industry in 2025. From the groundbreaking Lower Thames Crossing in the south to the Eastern Greenlink in the north, these transformative schemes represent the latest developments in cutting-edge engineering and architecture.  With a strong emphasis on sustainability, these transformative schemes are reshaping the nation’s infrastructure and urban landscapes through innovative thinking and rapid advances in building technology, such as construction ERP software.  The following 9 state-of-the-art projects showcase the UK as a leader in design and innovation, while offering fresh opportunities for construction professionals.  1. Lower Thames Crossing  A trailblazing project to build the UK’s longest road tunnel received a massive boost in June after the award of £590m of extra government money.  The Lower Thames Crossing will connect Essex and Kent via a 14.5-mile route designed to alleviate traffic congestion in the region. Costing an estimated £10bn in total, the government’s recent cash injection signals the go-ahead to secure further private investment, with work expected to start in 2026 and finish in 2032.  2. Sizewell C Nuclear Plant  The new Sizewell C nuclear power plant moved a step closer to fruition this year after the government committed £14.2bn of investment.  The plant, situated on the Suffolk coastline, will create 10,000 direct jobs and generate enough energy to power six million homes. When construction work begins in the near future, the project could take around 10 years to complete and dramatically reduce the UK’s reliance on fossil fuels in line with Net Zero targets.  3. Viadux 2 Tower  An ambitious project to build the UK’s fourth-tallest building received planning approval from Manchester City Council in April 2025.  The 246m, 76-storey Viadux 2 tower will contain 452 apartments, a 160-bedroom hotel, plus an adjacent 23-storey tower purely for affordable homes. Construction work is due to start this year, and when complete, Viadux 2 will transform the Manchester skyline and become the UK’s fourth tallest building after The Shard, 22 Bishopsgate and the soon-to-be-built 1 Undershaft.  4. Dundee’s Eden Project (pictured)   The £130m Eden Project Scotland entered its final design stage in early 2025, transforming an old gasworks into a green oasis that will attract thousands of visitors each year and give the local economy a massive boost.  The project features the complete regeneration of Dundee’s industrial waterfront and will become a landmark destination for green tourism. The scheme, similar to the famous Cornwall site, was granted planning permission in 2024 and will offer a combination of eco-friendly attractions, live music, exhibit, food and more. The charity behind the Eden Project schemes is in the process of raising funds and seeking investment before construction work can begin.  5. Havant Thicket Reservoir  Project leaders will be ramping up groundwork and site improvements of the UK’s first new reservoir in decades throughout 2025.  The Havant Thicket Reservoir, located in East Hampshire, will store around 8.7 billion litres of water by the time it’s operational in 2029. A joint venture between Portsmouth Water and Southern Water, and costing around £340m, the site covers 160 hectares. When complete, this incredible feat of engineering will supply up to 21 million litres of water to homes across the South of England each day, making it one of the largest schemes of its type anywhere in the world.  6. Eastern Greenlink 2  Construction work is currently underway on the dynamic Eastern Greenlink 2 project, marking one of the biggest changes to the UK’s energy infrastructure for many years.  The scheme will create a 505km electrical superhighway between Aberdeenshire and North Yorkshire via a cable laid under the North Sea. When work is completed in 2029, the £4.3bn project will produce clean energy from offshore wind and other natural sources, carry enough electricity to power two million homes, create thousands of jobs and boost the economy.  7. Transpennine Route Upgrade  Rail passengers travelling across the Pennines will benefit from a multi-billion-pound electrification project to improve services between Manchester Huddersfield, Leeds and York.  Dubbed the Transpennine Route Upgrade, the line between Manchester Victoria station and Stalybridge was electrified earlier this year while construction work on other sections continues to gather pace. Once complete, passengers will benefit from faster journey times of around 40 minutes between Manchester and Leeds and 65 minutes between Manchester and York. Developers say the project will also allow greener trains to operate and reduce carbon emissions by up to 87,000 tonnes each year.  8. Cambridge Children’s Hospital   Construction of a new children’s hospital in Cambridge is fast approaching after the tender for main contractors was launched earlier this year.  The government committed £100m to the state-of-the-art project, with the rest coming from fundraising and donations. Preparation work on the site is already underway, with completion expected in 2029. The hospital will serve the regions of Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex. It will be the first of its kind to combine treatment for both physical and mental health in children and young adults.  9. Gate Burton Energy Park  Approved in July 2024, work has started on a giant solar farm in Lincolnshire that will provide enough clean energy to power over 160,000 homes in the region.  Gate Burton Energy Park spans nearly 1,700 acres and will generate, store and export up to 500MW of electricity. Not only that, but the £300m scheme is expected to save more than 100,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year when the project is completed in 2028.  Overall, 2025 marks a significant milestone in UK construction and innovation, with a strong focus on renewable energy, sustainability, transport and new housing dominating the industry.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Senior Siemens executive appointed as Chair of Humber Freeport

Senior Siemens executive appointed as Chair of Humber Freeport

A senior Siemens executive who led two of the Humber region’s biggest inward investments has been appointed as the new Chair of Humber Freeport. Finbarr Dowling, who has driven forward large-scale investments within the region with a total value of £1 billion, will take up the role in October, following his retirement from Siemens. Announcing the appointment, Humber Freeport Acting Chair Professor Neal Juster said: “Finbarr will bring exceptional experience, credibility and connections to the role, as well as an unrivalled perspective, as someone who has overseen major investments into the region from vision to delivery. “He also has a deep passion for the region and commitment to maximising its potential for growth. We look forward to Finbarr taking up his new role and leading the next stage of development for the Freeport.”   As one of 12 UK freeports, Humber Freeport is a specially-designated cluster of strategically important sites benefiting from incentives designed to boost investment, economic growth and international trade. Humber Freeport covers three tax sites, in Hull, Goole and Immingham, and a customs site in Grimsby, and offers investors significant advantages related to tax, planning, infrastructure, innovation and customs. More than £1.2bn of investment has already been pledged in the Humber Freeport tax sites. Mr Dowling has worked for global technology giant Siemens for more than 35 years, in a variety of senior and leadership roles. Over the past 12 years he has been focused on leading the delivery of two of the region’s largest and most significant inward investments – Siemens’ developments focused on offshore wind, in Hull, and the rail industry, in Goole. Mr Dowling said: “I’m honoured to be appointed as Chair of Humber Freeport and I’m looking forward to working closely with the Freeport Board, executive team and partners to realise the many exciting opportunities that freeport status offers. “Having dedicated much of the past 12 years to delivering large-scale on the Humber, I know this region is a great place to invest and do business.” Mr Dowling was the Project Director for Siemens Gamesa’s investment, in partnership with Associated British Ports, in an offshore wind turbine blade factory, assembly and logistics operations at Alexandra Dock in Hull. He was later appointed as Director of Localisation for Siemens Mobility and has driven forward the development of an industry-leading rail centre of excellence in Goole. Prof Juster will continue as Acting Chair until Mr Dowling takes up the role on a permanent basis. Prof Juster has led the Board since the Freeport’s Founding Chair, Simon Bird, stepped down in January, having spearheaded the process of securing freeport status and leading the Board since the organisation was formally established in summer 2023. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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New southern region sales head

New southern region sales head

Siemens Buildings UK and Ireland has further strengthened its sales team with the appointment of Mark Gutteridge to the position of Area Sales Manager – South, Siemens Buildings Product Sales and Business Development. Gutteridge has been with Siemens for more than 10 years, most recently in the company’s digital industries business where he was the Solutions Partner Manager for the UK and Ireland. In his new role he will be responsible for both the Fire and the Comfort divisions which fall under the Siemens Buildings portfolio. Commenting on his appointment Gutteridge said – “I’m very much relishing the new challenge.  While I have some experience in areas which crossover with building management from my automation and control background – variable speed drives for example – it is essentially a new area for me. I understand the Siemens solutions-orientated philosophy very well from my previous roles and I look forward to applying that same commitment to finding optimal solutions in providing safer, more comfortable and more energy efficient environments for buildings.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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FIS launches ‘500 Word’ Sub-Contract to improve industry practices

FIS launches ‘500 Word’ Sub-Contract to improve industry practices

The Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) has taken another step forward, as part of its ongoing campaign to tackle the growing complexity of construction contracts, by launching a groundbreaking Simplified Sub-Contract built on the ‘500 Word’ principle. This simplified contract is designed to cut through legal jargon, reduce disputes and promote better business relationships across the sector. This initiative forms a key part of FIS’s work to drive fairer procurement and smarter contractual practices through its Responsible No Campaign. Developed in consultation with FIS members and aimed at fit-out and specialist contractors, the new sub-contract was developed by an FIS Working Group led by renowned contract specialist, Sarah Fox.  At the heart of Sarah’s philosophy is the belief that simplification works. By streamlining deals and clarifying terms, businesses can save time, build stronger relationships and avoid unnecessary conflict. The newly released contract embodies this principle and is now available to FIS members for free here. Matt Hallam, Divisional Director at Telling Finishings and a participant in the initial development workshop, commented: “For years construction contracts have increased in both content and terms, often adding minor changes and clauses which continue to confuse, conflict and often compromise those required to sign them.” “The need for a shorter and ultimately more simplified contract has never been greater and we at Telling Finishings look forward to rolling out the ‘500-word Contract’, to hopefully give both the comfort and clarity these contracts were originally built to achieve.” To further support members and industry professionals in adopting this new approach, FIS will host a webinar with Sarah Fox on 25 September. Click the link to book your place:Improving Business Relationships and Avoiding Disputes with Simplified Contracts. This session will provide practical insights on how to use the contract effectively and avoid disputes through simplification. FIS is now encouraging all those involved in the industry to download the contract and register for the webinar to learn how simplification can help transform contractual relationships in this sector. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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First homes to become available for rent at One Eastside, Birmingham

First homes to become available for rent at One Eastside, Birmingham

Birmingham, Thursday 31st July 2025 – Pension Insurance Corporation (“PIC”), a specialist insurer of defined benefit pension schemes, and Court Collaboration, a Birmingham-based specialist residential property developer, have confirmed Sectional Completion of Tower B at the hotly anticipated One Eastside BTR development in the city. The completed phase means 140 new homes, including one and two-bedroom apartments, will now become available for rent just a stone’s throw from the £1 billion HS2 station at Curzon Street. Once the second phase is completed in 2026, One Eastside will feature a total of 667 high-quality new homes for rent, with state-of-the-art co-working spaces and a range of amenities for residents, including a cinema room, sky lounge, spa and gym. PIC forward funded the £200 million One Eastside development in 2023 and will own it for the long term. Court Collaboration is delivering the development, which at 51 storeys (Tower A) will be the tallest building in Birmingham. PIC’s investment strategy is carefully constructed to deliver robust, index-linked cash flows that match future pensions payments it its policyholders. PIC has invested more than £14 billion in UK infrastructure and housing. These assets are generating social value up and down the country, driving economic growth and job creation. Rob Groves, Chief Investment Officer at PIC, said: “We are proud to have reached another milestone in our One Eastside development, with 140 of the total of 667 high-quality homes made available for rent in the heart of Birmingham. One Eastside will be the tallest building in the city and help pay the pensions of our policyholders for decades to come.” Alex Neale, Chief Executive Officer at Court Collaboration, added: “We’re really proud to see the first homes becoming available at One Eastside, representing another exciting milestone for this development. Huge thanks go to PIC and the vast team of contractors and consultants who have helped us make this scheme a reality. Now it’s onwards and upwards for the remaining sections of the overall project.” The new homes will become available from this summer. Enquiries can be made by emailing leasing@oneeastside.co.uk, calling 07812408381 or for more information, please visit www.oneeastside.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Mileway agrees 170,000 sq ft lease with Rubies and Smiffys in Liverpool

Mileway agrees 170,000 sq ft lease with Rubies and Smiffys in Liverpool

Mileway, the leading pan-European last mile logistics real estate company, has signed a ten-year lease agreement with Rubies, one of the largest designers, manufacturers and distributors of licensed dress up products in the world, and Smiffys, a leading global manufacturer and distributor of fancy dress costumes, wigs, accessories and make-up, for 170,000 sq ft (c. 15,700 sqm) of high-quality warehouse and office space at Space 170, 1 Pighue Lane, in Liverpool.  Under a Joint Venture agreement, Rubies and Smiffys will transition to the new facility in August 2025. The new space will mark a significant step in improving the company’s operational performance, fulfilment speed and customer service capabilities. This includes being able to optimise the warehouse layout and racking for faster, more efficient order fulfilment, increasing its inventory capacity and enhancing delivery accuracy.   To support the company’s growing operational needs, the modern facility is equipped with a state-of-the-art Warehouse Management System (WMS) to support real-time inventory tracking, streamlined workflows and improved system reliability. Other features include racking capacity for up to 14,000 pallets, a 9-metre eaves height, 13 dock-level loading doors, three level-access doors, two large secure yard areas, a 500 kVA power supply, and a fully fitted two-storey office and amenities block.   Strategically located near the M62 with access to the M57, M6 and Liverpool Ring Road, the property is well connected to the wider Northwest region, including the Port of Liverpool, the JLR factory and the New Mersey Crossing. It also benefits from proximity to key public transport links and local amenities, including the redeveloped Edge Lane Retail Park.  “We worked closely with Rubies and Smiffys to meet their specific and tight scheduling requirements, successfully ensuring disruption was kept to a minimum.  We look forward to building a long-term partnership as they enter this exciting phase of growth and operational transformation,” said Andrew Jones, Mileway Managing Director UK & Ireland.  “We are thrilled to embark on this journey of enhanced operational excellence and improved customer service. This strategic move represents our dedication to serving our customers better, especially in time for the Halloween season. The modern facility and upgraded technology will allow us to fulfil orders more efficiently, ensuring timely delivery and increased stock availability,” said Fran Hales, Head of Portfolio and Marketing at Rubies.  “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and this move to our new Liverpool location will ensure an improved and optimised process for every order that leaves our distribution facility. This customised fulfilment centre has been developed with our product range in mind, allowing for an improved service and more efficient order fulfilment. We’re looking forward to heading into our busiest season better equipped than ever to support our customers and meet demands,” said Elliott Peckett, Sales Director at Smiffys.  B8 Real Estate served as agents on the deal.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Chancerygate and CBRE IM granted planning for 105,000 sq ft urban logistics development in Eccles, Greater Manchester

Chancerygate and CBRE IM granted planning for 105,000 sq ft urban logistics development in Eccles, Greater Manchester

Chancerygate and CBRE Investment Management (CBRE IM) have been granted planning to speculatively build 105,000 sq ft of Grade A urban logistics space on a site in Eccles, Greater Manchester. Called Westside and located on Stadium Way , the scheme will comprise nine leasehold units ranging from 6,150 sq ft to 23,500 sq ft. The five-acre site is near the Salford Community Stadium and in close proximity to the M60, M62 and M6 motorways, offering easy access to Manchester, Liverpool and wider North West region. The neighbouring Salford Community Stadium is the home of rugby league side Salford Red Devils and the Sale Sharks rugby union team. All properties at Westside will feature electric vehicle charging points along with solar cells which provide green energy on an affordable basis to occupiers. In addition, the units will be constructed from high-performance building materials to reduce CO2 emissions. The scheme is targeting a BREEAM accreditation of Excellent and for all units to achieve an EPC A rating as a minimum. Chancerygate development manager, Andy Farrer, said: “Westside will deliver high quality accommodation which has strong sustainability credentials and excellent access to key road connections and major motorway networks. “This site will help satisfy the pent-up demand from SME businesses across the Salford, Greater Manchester and the wider North West for high-specification units in a well-established location. “Now that planning has been granted, we look forward to starting works on the site to deliver this much-needed industrial and logistics space and create a prime economic asset for the locality.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Bouygues UK appointed as construction partner for transformational children's hospital in Cambridge

Bouygues UK appointed as construction partner for transformational children’s hospital in Cambridge

Leading contractor Bouygues UK has been awarded the contract for Cambridge Children’s Hospital, a revolutionary facility poised to transform healthcare for young people. In partnership with Arcadis, Terrell International and AECOM, Bouygues UK is set to deliver a hospital that will provide unparalleled care for children in the region, encompassing both physical and mental health services, alongside research, in a way no one has before. Cambridge Children’s Hospital is designed to be a world-first facility, pioneering a comprehensive approach to children’s health by integrating physical and mental health care seamlessly. Through this integrated care model, the hospital will enhance its focus on research into the prevention and early diagnosis of diseases, ensuring the best possible care for children and young people, including those with cancer. The hospital spans approximately 35,000 square meters over six primary floors, targeting BREEAM Excellent certification and aligning with the NHS’s Net Zero Carbon (NZC) objectives. Bouygues UK’s commitment to sustainability is demonstrated in the design, employing Air Source Heat Pumps and photovoltaic cells to meet these stringent targets. A purposefully designed building, Cambridge Children’s Hospital is being co-created with valuable insights from young people, families, and healthcare professionals. This collaborative design process ensures that the facilities are tailored to meet the unique needs of children and young people. By integrating facilities wherever possible, the hospital recognises the reality that many children with mental health conditions may also experience physical health challenges, and vice versa. This integration will enable healthcare staff to provide better, safer, and age-appropriate care within high-quality, fit-for-purpose facilities, fulfilling the needs of children, young people, and families. The building has been designed by Hawkins\Brown in partnership with White Arkitekter. The architectural vision incorporates a mix of unitised and stick cladding systems, featuring Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC) panels, vertical terracotta fins, and picture frame details, presenting a modern and welcoming aesthetic. The landscaping plan supports environmental sustainability with a northeast car parking area, a dedicated cycle store for 190 bicycles in the southwest corner, and play areas designed for therapeutic and recreational use. Philippe Bernard, Chair and CEO at Bouygues UK said, “We are honoured to lead on the construction of this pioneering project which embodies our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and building for life. We look forward to working closely with all partners to bring this groundbreaking vision to life, setting new standards in healthcare for children.” Matt Allen, Director of New Hospital Construction at Cambridge University Hospitals, said, “We are delighted to be working with Bouygues UK. This is a major milestone in the journey to deliver Cambridge Children’s Hospital. “Bouygues UK are a first-class contractor with proven expertise in building and delivering excellent healthcare infrastructure within a collaborative environment makes them an ideal construction partner to deliver such an important project.  “Together we can now get straight down to work in finalising our design and plans and ensuring best value for money under an initial pre-construction services agreement.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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