Shaftesbury Capital has announced that Charlotte Tilbury, the internationally recognised make-up, fragrance, and skincare retailer, will join Soho’s latest line-up of new brands later this year, opening in an anchor gateway unit to the globally renowned Carnaby Street. Visitors can expect the brand’s highly coveted range of award-winning skincare, makeup,
Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting has been selected as Preferred Provider for floodlights by the global governing body of association football, FIFA. This means that Signify’s floodlights meet the highest quality FIFA standards and Signify is a trusted and recommended provider within the football industry. As a
Plans have been formally submitted for a major riverside regeneration project in Sunderland, with enabling works on the new Sheepfolds neighbourhood potentially starting as early as autumn. The hybrid planning application outlines proposals for up to 600 new homes, as well as commercial space and a car park, forming a
Clowes Developments, in partnership with contractor Roe Developments, has commenced enabling works for the next phase of Stud Brook Business Park in Castle Donington. The project will deliver five new trade counter, warehouse, and industrial units ranging in size from 3,229 sq ft to 4,606 sq ft, following planning approval
An exciting new collaboration between one of the leading operators of student accommodation, Fresh, and British department store, John Lewis & Partners is taking the stress out of move-in weekend for student residents. As part of Fresh’s commitment to resident wellbeing, the collaboration is designed not only to ensure residents
Now is a time of change for UK’s ‘broken’ water sector Publication of the final report of the independent review into the water sector’s regulatory system in England and Wales has been welcomed by ACE Group. The Independent Water Commission, chaired by Sir Jon Cunliffe, has now concluded its investigation
Frasers Group has reaffirmed its commitment to property as a core element of its growth strategy, highlighting real estate investment as a “key focus” amid shifting retail dynamics. The group’s property division generated £13.9 million in revenue for the 2025 financial year, marking a 19.1% year-on-year increase. This accounted for
The City of Westminster Council has appointed Altius Real Estate as its delivery partner for the comprehensive redevelopment of Huguenot House, a prominent site nestled between Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. The 1960s-era building is set to be replaced with a vibrant mixed-use scheme, including a cinema, hotel, new residential
Metrocentre in Gateshead has secured two significant retail deals, with Superdrug set to open its largest store in the region and Danish lifestyle brand Søstrene Grene preparing to launch its first outlet at the scheme. Superdrug will upsize its unit within the centre’s Red Mall to 10,000 sq ft, marking
A future defining office building set to lead on design, sustainability and occupier experience in Leeds Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS) has unveiled Z – a bold, future-focused 111,000 sq ft office development at Whitehall Riverside which is set to redefine workplace standards in Leeds. Positioned on a prime riverside
Shaftesbury Capital has announced that Charlotte Tilbury, the internationally recognised make-up, fragrance, and skincare retailer, will join Soho’s latest line-up of new brands later this year, opening in an anchor gateway unit to the globally renowned Carnaby Street. Visitors can expect the brand’s highly coveted range of award-winning skincare, makeup, and fragrance through a personalised experience and tailored expert advice from Charlotte Tilbury’s pro-make-up artists. Spanning 4,200 sq ft with a prominent frontage, the unit is located at one of the busiest entrance points to Carnaby Street, giving Charlotte Tilbury a huge presence at the top of the iconic shopping destination, and placing them alongside other recent arrivals, including PURESEOUL, TALA,and Farm Rio. Charlotte Tilbury has already made a significant impact on Shaftesbury Capital’s West End portfolio, with the recent opening of its upsized flagship store in Covent Garden, which tripled in size at the end of last year. Its upcoming space in Soho reflects the leading landlord’s ability to deliver a solid foundation for in-demand retailers to thrive, and the collaborative relationship it fosters and retains with brands to support expansion. William Oliver, Director of Retail & Restaurant Leasing at Shaftesbury Capital, said: “Carnaby Street is known for being home to some of the best, internationally recognised brands that the retail industry has to offer. It is a vibrant hub of high-quality, sought-after names that resonate with its London consumers, just as much as the huge volume of domestic and international visitors Carnaby Street attracts. Charlotte Tilbury is theatrical and immersive, something that mirrors the foundation and heritage of Carnaby Street, and its global appeal and innovative approach are the qualities we look for, to ensure we deliver the elevated retail experience people have come to expect here.” Charlotte Tilbury MBE, President, Chairwoman, Chief Creative Officer, & Founder Of Charlotte Tilbury said: “London’s limitless spirit of creativity and self-expression is so inspiring! From the early days of my career as a make up artist setting beauty trends at the seminal shows of London Fashion Week through to launching my first ever counter at Selfridges – the city has played such an integral part in my career. It’s the city where I opened my first ever Beauty Wonderland, and Covent Garden is now home to my biggest flagship store – it’s an innovative, immersive hub of beauty education, expertise and artistry, a re-imagining of the customer experience. In London, you can dare to dream it, dare to believe it and dare to do it!” This news follows the recent announcement of a series of landmark retail openings in Soho, the globally renowned destination now home to debut locations for TALA and Autry, new flagships for Farm Rio and PURESEOUL, and pop-ups for emerging brands De La Vali and Speltham. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting has been selected as Preferred Provider for floodlights by the global governing body of association football, FIFA. This means that Signify’s floodlights meet the highest quality FIFA standards and Signify is a trusted and recommended provider within the football industry. As a FIFA Preferred Provider for Floodlights (FPP), Signify meets rigorous product, production and system infrastructure performance requirements. Signify will also work with the FIFA Quality Programme to drive research and development in sports floodlighting, advancing technical standards for the future. Signify’s stadium floodlights have revolutionized the game-day experience. World-class illumination helps ensure optimal match experience for players, spectators and millions of TV viewers. Superior floodlighting plays a key part in supporting optical-based technologies such as video assistant referee technology, goal-line technology and optical tracking systems. Signify’s stadium lighting also provides opportunities for additional entertainment at major events, for example entertaining fans with customized light shows before, during and after games. Stadiums working with Signify as part of its FIFA Preferred Provider status can draw on a wide range of technology, including: Each lighting system can be managed remotely across the venue, including pitch, stadium façade and hospitality areas, helping to improve operational efficiency. Signify floodlighting is currently being used at world-class stadiums across the globe, including Stadion Feijenoord in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, where a new Arenavision lighting system has improved the match day experience for all and provides energy savings of 63%1 against previous systems. Niels Geven, Signify’s International Director, Sports and Arenas said, “This recognition from FIFA, which is responsible for some of the world’s most prestigious and watched sports events, is an important milestone for Signify and a reflection of our leadership in sports lighting. High-quality illumination is hugely important in modern-day sport, especially top-flight football. It’s vital for both player performance, officiating and broadcasting purposes, and an essential part of the match-day fan experience.” Signify has over 60 years’ experience working with sports lighting across a range of sports including football, hockey, basketball, cricket and tennis. The world leader in lighting is also the official lighting partner of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 team. For more information on arena and stadium lighting, click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Plans have been formally submitted for a major riverside regeneration project in Sunderland, with enabling works on the new Sheepfolds neighbourhood potentially starting as early as autumn. The hybrid planning application outlines proposals for up to 600 new homes, as well as commercial space and a car park, forming a key part of the city’s broader ambition to re-populate and revitalise its centre. Sheepfolds will become the most densely populated of the four emerging neighbourhoods within the Riverside Sunderland masterplan, located on the north side of the River Wear and connected to the city centre via the new Keel Crossing. Vistry Group, named as the council’s preferred development partner in May, is spearheading the plans. The hybrid application includes a detailed submission for the first phase of remediation works, which could begin in autumn 2025, with full housing construction targeted to start in early spring 2026. Councillor Kevin Johnston, portfolio holder for housing, regeneration and business at Sunderland City Council, said:“There is a pace to the development programme in this city that sends a clear message to our residents that we deliver what we say we will. The works proposed within the planning application will prepare the site for the first phase of residential development, which will be located to the east of the neighbourhood, connecting the fantastic new Housing Innovation and Construction Skills Academy with the St Peter’s Metro station.” The Riverside Sunderland vision aims to regenerate 32 hectares of brownfield land, delivering 1,000 new homes across four communities, with Sheepfolds set to play a central role in shaping the area’s future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Clowes Developments, in partnership with contractor Roe Developments, has commenced enabling works for the next phase of Stud Brook Business Park in Castle Donington. The project will deliver five new trade counter, warehouse, and industrial units ranging in size from 3,229 sq ft to 4,606 sq ft, following planning approval from North West Leicestershire District Council. Located on Plot 1, the units will be built around the fully operational Starbucks Drive-Thru, which sits prominently at the entrance of the business park and offers excellent access and ample central parking. The site is also adjacent to a newly opened Sainsbury’s Local, further enhancing the location’s appeal. Designed primarily for trade counter operators, the new units are part of a strategic expansion of the park. Occupier announcements are expected in the coming months. Roe Developments has been appointed as the main contractor and will deliver the scheme under a 30-week build programme. Units are scheduled for handover around Christmas 2025, with occupiers anticipated to begin trading in the New Year. James Richards, Development Director at Clowes Developments, commented: “We’re excited to move forward with the next phase at Stud Brook Business Park. The development has seen strong demand from trade operators since its launch, and Plot 1 represents a key opportunity to build on that momentum. With its prime location and excellent amenities, this phase is set to attract high-quality occupiers. Our ongoing collaboration with IMA Architects and local stakeholders ensures the scheme supports both commercial needs and the broader Castle Donington community.” Potential trade counter occupiers are invited to contact the site’s agents directly via Richard Sutton richards@ng-cs.com 07977 121 340 and Tim Gilbertson tim@fhp.co.uk 07887 787 893. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
An exciting new collaboration between one of the leading operators of student accommodation, Fresh, and British department store, John Lewis & Partners is taking the stress out of move-in weekend for student residents. As part of Fresh’s commitment to resident wellbeing, the collaboration is designed not only to ensure residents feel comfortable and supported from day one, but also features exclusive offers and practical support tailored to students’ needs. The partnership reflects Fresh’s ongoing investment in enhancing the student experience and is part of a wider programme of wellbeing-focused initiatives. Sam Scott, Managing Director of Fresh, explains: “Check-in weekend can feel stressful for many students but at Fresh we are providing more than just a home. We want our residents to be welcomed into a community and feel valued from the day they move in. Our collaboration with John Lewis adds a greater level of enjoyment for all involved. With fabulous pop-up shops in several of our Fresh locations, free lunches and parking we are confident we will be making the move-in experience less stressful, taking the pressure off our new residents and their parents and carers for a smooth experience.” The John Lewis & Partners pop-up shops will be available at selected Fresh properties as students move in, selling everything from power banks to duvets. Its stock is designed to ensure that students can access all forgotten essentials, no matter how big or small, to ensure check-in day is a seamless experience. The unique collaboration between Fresh and John Lewis & Partners will also see dedicated shopping lists available for students who simply don’t know where to start with their university packing. Created with Fresh properties in mind, the shopping lists take account of what students will already have in their rooms, as well as what they might need. Parents and carers are also supported via the collaboration, with vouchers available for discounted food and drinks and free parking at participating John Lewis & Partners stores during check-in weekend (time limits apply). The offer means adults can take a breather and give their youngsters a couple of hours to unpack and meet their fellow residents, before ensuring all is well and saying their goodbyes. The collaboration with John Lewis & Partners is the latest in a string of innovations implemented by Fresh to support students’ wellbeing. The company already delivers the best-in-class Be Wellbeing programme, supporting the evolution of vibrant communities where residents can thrive. The programme is an integral part of the Fresh experience, meaning every student is supported to build friendships and enjoy a sense of belonging. Regular events and activities take place throughout the year as part of the Be Wellbeing programme, from sushi-making classes and breakfast get-togethers to art therapy and puppy yoga. Students are also welcomed to a wide range of cultural and religious celebrations, including for Christmas, Lunar New Year, Holi Bhai Dooj, Eid, Ramadan and Hanukkah. Louise Julier, Business Partnerships Executive at John Lewis & Partners comments: “We are delighted to be collaborating with Fresh to deliver this unique new service to students in support of their wellbeing. A stress-free start to the university term supports young people to settle in more quickly and enjoy the experience, rather than the anxiety of forgotten essentials. It’s a weight off minds for parents and carers too, knowing their young people have everything they need to embrace their fledgling independence.” To find out more, visit www.thisisfresh.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Now is a time of change for UK’s ‘broken’ water sector Publication of the final report of the independent review into the water sector’s regulatory system in England and Wales has been welcomed by ACE Group. The Independent Water Commission, chaired by Sir Jon Cunliffe, has now concluded its investigation into the provision of water and the quality of our natural water environment. The review is a direct response to a catalogue of pollution cases, financial difficulties, mismanagement and infrastructure failures within the sector, which combined have shaken the public’s trust. With firm recommendations on driving resilience, enabling innovation, supporting supply chain capacity, speeding up delivery and the capability of water companies to roll out large infrastructure projects, ACE Group is calling on Government to embed these into law at the earliest opportunity. Director of Policy at ACE Group, Marie-Claude Hemming, said: “ACE Group has long argued that the UK’s water sector is fundamentally broken, still driven by cycles of boom and bust alongside challenging business models, a lack strategy and pipeline visibility. “The publication of the Cunliffe review highlights that it really is now time for change. Trust has been broken and we all have a part to play in its restoration. “This cannot be done in isolation. While we urge the government to implement the recommendations of this independent review as soon as possible, we must all be cognisant of big decisions ahead. “Primarily, it is no longer possible to continue with the current approach, whereby the industry is deprived of necessary investment – does not drive economic growth and the longer-term environmental outcomes future generations deserve. “We need honest conversations about cost and the finance models needed to deliver the world class water infrastructure society expects. “ACE Group urges Government not to shy away from difficult decisions and seize the opportunity to deliver this once in a generation reform to our water sector.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Frasers Group has reaffirmed its commitment to property as a core element of its growth strategy, highlighting real estate investment as a “key focus” amid shifting retail dynamics. The group’s property division generated £13.9 million in revenue for the 2025 financial year, marking a 19.1% year-on-year increase. This accounted for 1.8% of total group revenue and reflects a strategy built around targeted acquisitions and asset enhancement. The uplift was underpinned by the annualisation of previous acquisitions, including Castleford’s shopping centres, alongside a string of high-profile deals completed during the year. These included Frenchgate in Doncaster, Princesshay in Exeter, Fremlin Walk in Maidstone, and a portfolio of Affinity outlets. Trading profit from the property arm rose by £5 million, driven by higher rental income. However, gains were partly offset by a £5.8 million increase in operating costs. In contrast, Frasers’ core retail division reported a 7.4% decline in revenue compared to the previous year. Although Sports Direct continued to deliver sales growth and the group acquired Twinsport during the period, these gains were outweighed by planned revenue reductions across Game UK, Studio Retail, and a number of brands previously acquired from JD Sports and SportMaster in Denmark. The luxury market also remained subdued, though the group noted some encouraging early signs of recovery. Michael Murray, Chief Executive of Frasers Group, said:“I’m pleased with our performance this year, despite the headwinds caused by last year’s Budget. We remain fully committed to our Elevation Strategy, which drove another record year of profitable growth and further delivery of our key priorities. We continued our strategy of confidently investing for the future, unlocking multiple opportunities for sustainable medium- to long-term growth.” He added:“We accelerated our international expansion, announcing partnerships in Australia, Asia and EMEA, to further build Sports Direct into a truly worldwide proposition. Our relationships with the world’s best global brands, including Nike, adidas and HUGO BOSS, are the strongest they have ever been, and our ambitious growth plans are now strengthening and scaling these partnerships even further.” “We captured over £125 million of synergies through strategic acquisition integrations and cost-savings, and continued to invest in real estate opportunities that deliver great value for the group.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The City of Westminster Council has appointed Altius Real Estate as its delivery partner for the comprehensive redevelopment of Huguenot House, a prominent site nestled between Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. The 1960s-era building is set to be replaced with a vibrant mixed-use scheme, including a cinema, hotel, new residential flats, modern office space, and significant improvements to the surrounding public realm. Altius Real Estate will collaborate with contractor Erith and world-renowned architects Foster + Partners to bring the project to life. With design work now underway, a planning application is expected to follow a period of public consultation. The council first identified full-scale redevelopment as the preferred approach in 2021, following extensive studies and community engagement over several years. Councillor David Boothroyd, Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform, commented:“The redevelopment of Huguenot House represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform a key site in the heart of the West End. Altius has demonstrated a clear commitment to delivering high-quality homes, including much-needed affordable housing, alongside vibrant community spaces and a reimagined public realm.” The scheme aims to revitalise this strategic location with a mix of cultural, commercial and residential uses, helping to reinforce the West End’s role as one of London’s most dynamic and liveable districts. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Metrocentre in Gateshead has secured two significant retail deals, with Superdrug set to open its largest store in the region and Danish lifestyle brand Søstrene Grene preparing to launch its first outlet at the scheme. Superdrug will upsize its unit within the centre’s Red Mall to 10,000 sq ft, marking a 31% increase on its previous space. The upgraded store will feature the brand’s latest concept, including treatment studios and cosmetic services, as well as new signage, flooring, ceiling tiles, and energy-efficient LED lighting. The enhanced space will strengthen Superdrug’s position as a wellness anchor in the Red Mall, joining leading fashion and lifestyle brands such as Zara, Flannels, River Island, and upcoming arrivals Stradivarius and Urban Outfitters. Meanwhile, in the Lower Green Mall, Søstrene Grene has signed for a 5,000 sq ft unit opposite Next. Known for its Scandinavian-inspired home décor, furniture, crafts and gift items, the retailer will join an established line-up that includes ProCook, Clarks, and Holland & Barrett. Ben Cox, director at Sovereign Centros from CBRE, asset manager of Metrocentre, said:“We firmly believe that creating growth opportunities for existing brands is paramount to not just a successful tenant mix, but the overall visitor experience. Superdrug will be benefiting from that after years of success, delivering a greater range of services and products in a better and more enhanced environment. The arrival of Søstrene Grene will also elevate the centre, with both retailers highlighting confidence in our destination as we provide even more reasons for people to visit and uphold our position as the go-to destination in the North East.” These latest signings follow continued investment in Metrocentre, including a full refurbishment of Boots’ 40,000 sq ft unit, as well as new openings for Kuoni, Muffin Break, and the regional debut of Clinton’s new store format. Lunson Mitchenall and Time Retail Partners represent Metrocentre on leasing. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A future defining office building set to lead on design, sustainability and occupier experience in Leeds Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS) has unveiled Z – a bold, future-focused 111,000 sq ft office development at Whitehall Riverside which is set to redefine workplace standards in Leeds. Positioned on a prime riverside site, the 11-storey building will deliver a next-generation workspace that blends intelligent building systems, exceptional sustainability credentials, and distinctive architecture. Designed for ambitious, connected businesses, it will offer the most technologically advanced and experience-led office space in the city. Z is intentionally distinctive – a bold, single-letter name inspired by its spiritual, astrological and mathematical associations of knowledge, wisdom, understanding, beauty, harmony and completeness. It symbolises ambition, modernity, and a new era of workspace thinking: where performance, design, and wellbeing converge. More than a name, Z reflects a progressive shift in how we work, connect, and care for our environment. A New Brand with Creative at Its Core To support the launch, TCS has introduced a striking new visual identity and brand for Z, now live at zleeds.com. The campaign includes a series of unique, AI-generated images that blend people with elements of nature – symbolising Z’s connection to its immediate natural surroundings. A fully interactive virtual tour is also now available on the website, giving prospective occupiers a dynamic preview of the spaces and amenities on offer. Craig Burrow, Group Property Director at TCS said “As workspace continues to evolve, Z has been designed to be more than just a building. Set within an unrivalled riverside location, it provides best-in-class, smart, energy-efficient office spaces, with the highest level of amenity. We are excited to be setting new standards with a new breed of workspace”. A Smart, Sustainable, Future-Ready Workplace Z will be equipped with cutting-edge technologies that monitor air quality, occupancy, and energy usage in real time – empowering occupiers to make data-driven decisions. Flexible floorplates and a variety of workspace formats are supported by a communal rooftop terrace, lounge areas, multipurpose spaces, and high-spec meeting and event facilities. TCS is currently in advanced discussions with potential occupiers and plans to bring forward Z as a key component of the wider Whitehall Riverside masterplan. This includes a new flagship CitiPark multi-storey car park and travel hub, offering 478 EV-enabled spaces to support sustainable commuting and future mobility. A Riverside Destination for Business and Community Set within a reimagined public realm, Z connects directly to the River Aire via landscaped walkways, rain gardens, and biodiverse planting. The animated ground floor will act as a vibrant hub of activity, featuring a riverside terrace, on-site café, and social spaces designed to support both work and leisure. Z represents a major investment in the future of Leeds – a dynamic new destination that reflects how people want to work, live, and connect. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals