Marks & Spencer (M&S) has revealed a £50 million investment plan to enhance its stores across the North West of England, adding a total of 100,000 sq ft of extra retail space to its estate. The investment, which will span the next three financial years, will see the rejuvenation of
The latest phase of the regeneration of the Aylesbury Estate in south London has reached its highest point. The occasion was marked yesterday by members of the community coming together with representatives from Notting Hill Genesis, Southwark Council, the GLA and The Hill Group to see the last of the
GMI Construction Group has started work on a major purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme at Foss Islands Road in York. The £17m contract is the Yorkshire firm’s third PBSA project in the city, cementing its reputation as a leader in delivering high-quality student homes – with completion date targeted for
The offshore wind industry is not just a cornerstone of the UK’s transition to clean energy – it’s the driving force behind the nation’s push towards a sustainable future. As the global race for offshore wind capacity intensifies, deep-water quays like Steel River Quay are essential to ensuring the UK
As extreme weather events are projected to become more frequent due to climate change*, the demand for resilient construction materials is also rising. In response, ROCKWOOL has subjected NyRock® Rainscreen 032 to a robust, independent testing programme designed to reflect how the product is commonly installed on buildings. The tests
SP Energy Networks has donated eight laptops to Community Veterans Support (CVS) in Glasgow, fast-tracking the centre’s tech upgrade plans. This donation will help the charity replace its outdated IT systems while ensuring that disused technology is usefully repursued. Community Veterans Support has been a lifeline for veterans in the
Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial developer, announces the completion of a bespoke built-to-suit (BTS) 621,000 sq ft facility and its occupation by Tesco, the UK’s leading retailer, at Panattoni Park Aylesford. The completion of this project marks a significant milestone in supporting supply chain efficiency for Tesco, enabling
DMA Group is pleased to announce its appointment to Fusion21’s Workplace and Facilities Management Framework, securing a position on Lot 4 – Building Engineering Services. The framework worth up to £700 million, set to run over the next four years, is designed to provide a range of hard and soft
Construction is officially underway on a new multi-let retail park in northwest Darlington, as northern development firm Almscliffe-Dhesi (AD) breathes new life into a disused industrial site. Work on the County Durham development has commenced and is set for completion this September. Several well-known brands, including Costa Coffee, Greggs, Indigo
Rising costs and policy uncertainty contribute to a sharp decline in project-starts in Q.1 2025 Today, Glenigan, Powered by Hubexo (Glenigan), releases the April 2025 edition of its Construction Index, offering a detailed and comprehensive analysis of construction activity during the three months leading to the end of March 2025.
Marks & Spencer (M&S) has revealed a £50 million investment plan to enhance its stores across the North West of England, adding a total of 100,000 sq ft of extra retail space to its estate. The investment, which will span the next three financial years, will see the rejuvenation of three stores in the region, bringing them in line with the retailer’s latest store format. In addition, five brand-new stores will be launched as part of the retailer’s ongoing store renewal and rotation programme. This move follows the success of recently renewed stores, which have been performing well since their revamp. The first of the new-look stores, at Gemini Retail Park in Warrington, reopened last week with an updated clothing, home, and beauty department, following the opening of a food hall at the same location last October. Meanwhile, the M&S store at New Mersey Retail Park in Speke will relocate and undergo a major transformation from a food hall to a full-line store, introducing clothing, home, and beauty departments to the south Liverpool area. In Formby, Merseyside, a brand-new food hall will open at The Point development, while in Thornton-Cleveleys, Lancashire, plans are underway to open a new food hall, subject to planning permission, which will triple the size of the existing store to 16,000 sq ft. Additionally, M&S has submitted a planning application to relocate its Blackburn store to the Frontier Park retail hub in East Lancashire. M&S’s Greater Manchester stores are also set for growth, with an extension planned for the full-line store at Middlebrook Retail Park in Bolton and a redesign for the food hall in Sale, which has recently been completed. Will Smith, Property Director at M&S, commented: “As we reshape for growth, we want to open new stores that not only offer a great shopping experience but that we can also be proud of. Our upcoming stores for 2025 showcase our commitment to investing in market-leading stores, as part of our ongoing renewal and rotation strategy. This investment in the North West will allow us to continue offering high-quality products, that M&S touch of magic, and the trusted value our customers expect.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The latest phase of the regeneration of the Aylesbury Estate in south London has reached its highest point. The occasion was marked yesterday by members of the community coming together with representatives from Notting Hill Genesis, Southwark Council, the GLA and The Hill Group to see the last of the concrete being laid at the top of the block, which is due to be completed next year. This milestone shows Notting Hill Genesis’s ongoing commitment to providing safe, comfortable and quality homes for both existing and new residents. At the heart of this project is Notting Hill Genesis’s dedication to growing and investing in the community to make sure they are part of the regeneration. Chairs of the residents’ associations and other key local figures joined the ceremony, which was followed by a tour of the hoarding displaying residents’ artwork, chosen through a local art prize competition. Notting Hill Genesis has been working in partnership with Southwark Council since 2014 on the regeneration of the Aylesbury Estate. Together they have already delivered over 700 homes, of which 85% are social rent, alongside a new library and health centre. The latest phase, known as FDS C, will have shared ownership, private sale and market rent homes alongside social rent. The next phase of homes, phase 2b, is currently in planning and should provide a further 640 homes, half being affordable. Matthew Cornwall-Jones, chief homes officer at Notting Hill Genesis, said: “I’m so proud to see this latest milestone. We have been working on the regeneration of the Aylesbury Estate for over a decade and it’s great to celebrate its progress alongside members of the community today. “I want to say a huge thank you to our dedicated partners. We are excited to see the continued growth and positive impact this area will have for years to come. “We are committed to this regeneration and working with existing residents to make sure the new homes and spaces meet their needs.” Cain Peters, managing director for special projects at The Hill Group said: “Reaching this important “topping out” milestone at the Aylesbury Estate highlights Hill’s long-standing commitment to building safe, comfortable, and high-quality housing for vital regeneration projects. “We hope residents will enjoy the new community centre, health centre and library for many years to come and we now looking forward to completing this project August 2027.” Councillor Helen Dennis, Southwark’s cabinet member for new homes and sustainable development, said: “I’m really pleased to celebrate this milestone with our partners Notting Hill Genesis as the renewal of the Aylesbury continues to transform lives on the estate with brand new high-quality homes. “The Aylesbury Estate renewal has made huge progress over the last year with hundreds of new council homes delivered on the First Development Site, as well as a new community centre, health centre and library for residents to enjoy. I look forward to seeing this phase completed with residents moving in and enjoying their new homes.” Tom Copley, deputy mayor for housing and residential development, said: “I’m delighted to celebrate this milestone in the regeneration of Aylesbury Estate, along with our partners at Notting Hill Genesis, Southwark Council and The Hill Group. “Backed by funding from the Mayor of London, Aylesbury Estate represents a bold vision for the future of housing in south London. With 700 new, high-quality homes – 85 per cent of which are at social rent – and new state-of-the-art community facilities, this development is an exciting example of how we are creating a better and fairer London for everyone.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
GMI Construction Group has started work on a major purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme at Foss Islands Road in York. The £17m contract is the Yorkshire firm’s third PBSA project in the city, cementing its reputation as a leader in delivering high-quality student homes – with completion date targeted for the start of the 2026/27 academic year. Developed in partnership by Urbium Capital and Harrogate-based developer Gregory Properties, the brownfield site – previously occupied by Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Just Tyres – was acquired early last year. The five-storey building will feature 131 premium studios and two one-bedroom apartments, paired with an array of amenity areas, including co-working study spaces, fitness centre, multi-functional social areas, and landscaped courtyards that aim to enhance the student living experience. Equidistant from the University of York and York St John University and conveniently positioned on the edge of the city centre, it offers a perfect location for students. Designed with sustainability in mind, it aims to address York’s well-documented PBSA shortage while contributing to the area’s regeneration. In 2023 York was named as suffering one of the worst shortages of PBSA in the country, exacerbated by rising student numbers, increased demand for residential rentals, and a growing trend among landlords to target short-term holiday lets. GMI Construction Group has established a strong presence in York’s student accommodation market, with two other PBSA projects underway and due to complete later this Spring. These include a £50m 275-bed development for Olympian Homes on the former Rialto cinema and bingo hall site and a £22m project for S Harrison Developments on James Street, which will deliver 303 beds. Mick Spells, GMI’s Project Manager, said: “We’re excited to break ground on the Foss Islands Road project – continuing our work expanding York’s student housing infrastructure. “It’s a project that aligns perfectly with GMI’s commitment to delivering high-quality projects that benefit local communities. We look forward to bringing this scheme to life and making a positive contribution to the city’s student experience.” Iain McKillop, Investment Director at Urbium Capital, added: “We are pleased to see work commence on this exciting project. It exemplifies our dedication to transforming under-utilised brownfield sites to meet contemporary needs. Foss Islands Road is an ideal location for student housing, and we are proud to collaborate with GMI Construction Group, whose expertise and commitment to quality make them an outstanding partner. This development not only addresses the critical demand for student accommodation but underscores the significant role students play in York’s thriving economy.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The offshore wind industry is not just a cornerstone of the UK’s transition to clean energy – it’s the driving force behind the nation’s push towards a sustainable future. As the global race for offshore wind capacity intensifies, deep-water quays like Steel River Quay are essential to ensuring the UK maintains its competitive edge in renewable energy. Teesworks, the UK’s largest Freeport and hub for the sustainable industry, is at the forefront of the nation’s clean energy revolution. Central to its success and situated in the North East of England is Steel River Quay – a unique quay with deep-water capabilities and purpose-built to support the rapid expansion of the offshore wind sector. Strategic importance One of the key bottlenecks in offshore wind expansion is the availability of technically suitable and well-connected Freeport. The deployment of offshore wind turbines requires quays with deep water access, extensive storage and heavy-lift capabilities to handle and store large monopiles, turbines and other vital components. England’s east coast has a limited number of deep-water ports capable of handling offshore wind infrastructure at scale. This is where Steel River Quay, part of the Teesworks site, comes into its own. The product of a two-year build and around £114m of investment, Steel River Quay is equipped to address the challenges of the offshore wind industry head-on. Offering a depth of at least 13.6 metres at any state of the tide and 450 metres long, it can accommodate two of the largest offshore wind installation vessels simultaneously. The quay’s heavy-lift platform, rated at 30 tonnes per square metre, ensures it can support the demands of the industry’s biggest players. A deep-water quay is just one of the ingredients needed for success in the offshore renewable energy sector – while it offers the opportunity for loading and unloading at speed, what happens to those components while they are not on board ship? Large-scale, secure storage is crucial to offshore wind operators in order to reduce ship journey numbers and hence keep costs down. Garry O’Malley, Chairman at Steel River Quay, said: “Steel River Quay is a standout facility and unique to the East coast of England. Not just for its deep-water capabilities and heavy lift technology but its expansive storage areas and access to an additional 500 acres of land via the South Bank Link Road. “The quay will be a major strategic facility for the North Sea offshore wind industry over the next few decades.” The quay to the UK’s biggest offshore wind projects While Steel River Quay was only completed in spring 2024, it is already making its presence felt with involvement in some of the UK’s biggest offshore wind projects. The quay’s deep-water capabilities and vast storage space provide an essential marshalling point for turbine components for the Dogger Bank Wind Farm – the world’s largest offshore wind farm currently under construction – before they are transported to their final installation sites in the North Sea. Additionally, the quay has also started taking deliveries for what will be the world’s largest monopile manufacturing facility – the giant £950m SeAH Wind factory nearing completion on the Teesworks site. The deep-water facilities, storage and related infrastructure on Teesworks were crucial components in the decision by SeAH to locate their 810-metre-long facility at the site, recently visited by His Royal Highness King Charles III. Teesworks will also play a significant role in the development of the £8.5bn Hornsea 3 offshore wind farm. Set to deliver enough green energy to power more than 3 million UK homes, Hornsea 3 will be making a significant contribution toward UK energy security, as well the local and national economy. As one of the UK’s most significant renewable energy projects, Hornsea 3 will require large-scale steel fabrication to support its offshore wind turbines. To assist with this, Hornsea 3 project developer Ørsted and steel contractor Severfield are establishing a steel fabricating facility at Teesworks for Hornsea 3. Severfield, a market leader in structural steel, is leveraging Teesworks’ strategic location, deep-water access and logistics network to construct key components for this transformative project. The multiplier effect While major occupiers and large-scale projects have grabbed the headlines at the Teesworks site, the development is also making its presence felt further down the supply chain. Planning permission was recently secured for more than 40 hybrid commercial units to be built on the Teesworks site near to the SeAH Wind factory. These units will be rented out to local SMEs, including those in the renewable energy and related sectors, a number of whom are likely to service the needs of large occupiers on the Teesworks site such as SeAH Wind. Chris Musgrave OBE, Teesworks Ltd chairman, explains: “We know how important small businesses are to building the bedrock of the local economy, creating jobs and driving prosperity which is why we always wanted to involve SMEs literally on the ground at Teesworks. “We’re keen to make a start on building those units as soon as possible so we’ll be getting on site as soon as we can and creating the spaces for new and existing businesses to set up and grow.” Powering the clean energy future By providing the essential infrastructure needed to support the next generation of offshore wind farms, Teesworks is not just supporting its investors and tenants—it is helping to power the UK’s clean energy future. Steel River Quay and Teesworks’ infrastructure are key to scaling up the UK’s offshore wind ambitions and meeting net-zero targets. As offshore wind continues to expand, facilities like Steel River Quay will be the backbone of the industry, ensuring a greener, more sustainable landscape for generations to come. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As extreme weather events are projected to become more frequent due to climate change*, the demand for resilient construction materials is also rising. In response, ROCKWOOL has subjected NyRock® Rainscreen 032 to a robust, independent testing programme designed to reflect how the product is commonly installed on buildings. The tests demonstrated that the insulation can withstand wind conditions equivalent to at least a Category 4 hurricane *. Carried out in accordance with BRE Digest 346 Part 7, the programme simulated 50 years of varying wind pressures. 125mm NyRock Rainscreen 032 was installed in a range of typical façade build-ups, including, critically, one that incorporated a breather membrane. “Specifiers, contractors and building owners need every confidence that the products they’re using can withstand the weather of the future and have been tested in applications that reflect how they’re commonly specified and installed,” says Lisa Stephens, Product Manager at ROCKWOOL UK. “A breather membrane is important to the testing process, as the wind can infiltrate behind it and exert pressure on the insulation. Despite this, not all rainscreen insulation wind load tests include a breather membrane. “By testing our rainscreen insulation in a build-up that more closely replicates a façade’s design, architects and specifiers can make informed decisions, knowing the findings are rooted in common build-up scenarios.” The ROCKWOOL testing programme examined the product in two common façade build-ups: a steel frame masonry façade comprising 125mm NyRock Rainscreen 032 installed in ACS channel without additional mechanical fixings and a steel frame cladded façade with 125mm NyRock Rainscreen 032 installed with 50mm EJOT fixings. Both tests concluded that NyRock Rainscreen 032 can withstand a minimum of Category 4 hurricane conditions. The 50mm fixing test was completed, recognising that space restrictions sometimes mean 70mm fixings cannot always be used. The testing confirmed that smaller 50mm fixings — instead of 70mm — are sufficient to endure Category 4 hurricane wind pressure. Similarly, in masonry façade build-ups, NyRock Rainscreen 032 demonstrated its strength without the need for additional mechanical fixings. In addition to providing independent verification for customers, the results highlight the potential for cost reductions and labour efficiencies. “In practical terms, this means specifiers and contractors can save on fixing costs with the knowledge that a more complete build-up has been independently assessed for wind-load,” Lisa concluded. NyRock Rainscreen 032 is part of the ROCKWOOL NyRock range of products that offer the lowest lambda stone wool insulation currently available in the UK and Ireland** with 0.032 W/mK thermal conductivity. NyRock Rainscreen 032 also has a Euroclass A1 non-combustible reaction to fire rating and independently tested acoustic benefits. For further details of the testing programme, visit rockwool.com/uk/wind-load-testing *According to ‘The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale’ **Correct at time of going to press versus publicly available information. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
SP Energy Networks has donated eight laptops to Community Veterans Support (CVS) in Glasgow, fast-tracking the centre’s tech upgrade plans. This donation will help the charity replace its outdated IT systems while ensuring that disused technology is usefully repursued. Community Veterans Support has been a lifeline for veterans in the Glasgow area and beyond for over 12 years. Located in the historic Pearce Institute in Govan, CVS offers a welcoming environment where veterans can access essential services and find a sense of community. Officially opened on 28th May 2015 by Veterans Minister Keith Brown MSP, the centre supports around 400 veterans every month. Providing daily essentials such as hot meals and emergency food parcels, the centre also offers a wide range of additional services, including housing assistance, benefits, pensions, medical support, education, training and employment support. Beyond its front doors, the charity extends its support to veterans who are unable to physically access the centre, including those who are hospitalised, ensuring that even the most vulnerable veterans receive the help they need. Previously, veterans struggled with outdated technology, and those outside the centre had limited access to necessary tools. With the new laptops, veterans regardless of their location will now have access to better tools to upskill and stay connected to their community. Rohan Baruah, part of the SP Energy Networks’ Community Liaison team and a veteran himself, presented the laptops to the centre. Rohan said “As a veteran, I know how important it is to have access to the right tools and resources. These laptops will make a big difference in the lives of many, giving them more opportunities for training and connection.” David Devenney, former Royal Marine and Director of the centre said “This tech upgrade marks a significant leap forward for our centre. Now, our veterans will be able to access training and engage in hybrid working. This is particularly important for our hospitalised veterans and will ensure that they remain connected and continue to develop essential skills.” This initiative is part of SP Energy Networks ongoing efforts to support the local community within its operating areas. For more information about Community Veterans Support and their services, please visit their Facebook here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial developer, announces the completion of a bespoke built-to-suit (BTS) 621,000 sq ft facility and its occupation by Tesco, the UK’s leading retailer, at Panattoni Park Aylesford. The completion of this project marks a significant milestone in supporting supply chain efficiency for Tesco, enabling enhanced logistics and operational capabilities. The new facility was designed in close collaboration with Tesco to meet the company’s specific operational needs. It features a 300,000 sq ft chilled section, a 100,000 sq ft freezer area, and extensive electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to support Tesco’s transition to an electric HGV fleet. The state-of-the-art buildings will play a crucial role in Tesco’s ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of its supply chain and bolster its capacity to meet customer demand, integrating advanced technologies to optimise logistics operations while supporting sustainability initiatives. This landmark project marks a major milestone in delivering sustainable logistics infrastructure and driving significant economic growth in the region. The facility is expected to support Tesco’s operations while contributing to the local economy and generating new jobs. Panattoni’s focus on sustainability is illustrated by achieving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ certification and EPC ‘A’ rating on Tesco’s. Tony Watkins, Head of Development: South East & London at Panattoni said: “The 621,000 sq ft facility is the culmination of our vision for the project to deliver cutting-edge operational capabilities for Tesco, creating jobs and generating benefits for Kent. This facility will also bring amenities such as retail, dining, and services, while driving investment in logistics and local businesses. “We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved at Panattoni Park Aylesford. This development showcases our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and collaboration with tenants such as Tesco, the local community, and stakeholders. Together, we have delivered a facility that sets a new benchmark for modern logistics.” Stuart Moffat, Head of Development – Distribution at Tesco said: “We have worked with Panattoni over the past few years to develop a bespoke facility that meets our operational needs while supporting our distribution and sustainability goals. Panattoni has proven to be such an efficient and proactive developer, and a fantastic partner in delivering this project at Panattoni Park Aylesford. This built-to-suit facility is particularly vital for us, incorporating cutting-edge ESG features, including 90,000 sq metres of solar panels and EV charging infrastructure that we have invested in to support our vehicles and staff.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
DMA Group is pleased to announce its appointment to Fusion21’s Workplace and Facilities Management Framework, securing a position on Lot 4 – Building Engineering Services. The framework worth up to £700 million, set to run over the next four years, is designed to provide a range of hard and soft facilities management (FM) services to support the operation of public buildings. Fusion21’s purpose-driven procurement approach ensures that every project delivers visible social value, from creating jobs and apprenticeships to supporting sustainability and community-focused initiatives. Having generated over £200 million in social impact and created over 13,550 employment outcomes, Fusion21 is committed to making a difference and motivating sustainable change. DMA Group’s appointment to Fusion21’s Workplace and Facilities Management Framework reinforces its commitment to giving back to communities and the industry while strengthening its presence in facilities management and building engineering services. As a pre-approved supplier, DMA Group will have the opportunity to deliver efficient, sustainable, and compliant solutions, supporting initiatives that enhance workforce skills, promote sustainability, and create new opportunities. This framework is suitable for public sector organisations including the education sector. With expertise in school estate management, energy solutions, and compliance, DMA Group is well-positioned to support Multi Academy Trusts (MATs) and schools in maintaining safe, efficient, and high-performing learning environments, while also contributing to the long-term development of local communities and the built environment. Valerie Miller, Chief Customer Officer at DMA Group, commented: “This appointment opens up fantastic opportunities for us to further support the public sector. Being awarded a place on Fusion21’s Workplace and Facilities Management Framework will enable DMA Group to make a real difference – helping the public sector to optimise their estates and reduce operational costs. For education providers in particular, we understand the pressures of maintaining safe, energy-efficient school environments, and we’re excited to bring our expertise to more MATs and schools across the UK.” Russell Gates, Framework Manager at Fusion21 said: “We are delighted to welcome all of the new suppliers onto Fusion21’s Workplace and Facilities Management Framework, including DMA Group. The tender process was highly competitive and has identified the best suppliers for our members to use for providing a range of hard and soft facilities management (FM) services to support the operation of public buildings. “Members accessing this framework will benefit from flexible call-off options, UK-wide coverage, and the option to deliver social value to their communities, aligned to their organisational priorities.” DMA Group remains committed to making buildings work better and is looking forward to opportunities to collaborate with Fusion21 members to drive sustainable, high-quality facilities management solutions. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction is officially underway on a new multi-let retail park in northwest Darlington, as northern development firm Almscliffe-Dhesi (AD) breathes new life into a disused industrial site. Work on the County Durham development has commenced and is set for completion this September. Several well-known brands, including Costa Coffee, Greggs, Indigo Sun, Harrison Vets, and Fastnet, have already secured units at the site. Additionally, McDonald’s has purchased a plot at the entrance, where it is constructing its own unit. This project follows AD’s recent success in delivering three major retail developments across the North East and North Lincolnshire. Neil Creeney, director at AD, said: “We’re pleased to confirm that construction at Faverdale is progressing well and remains on track for completion this autumn. The site has been fully cleared, and steelwork is set to begin shortly. “This marks Phase One of a wider development on the Faverdale site, with an additional four acres earmarked for future retail expansion. We are thrilled to have secured such a strong lineup of retailers for the first phase, bringing more choice to the area and boosting the local economy.” The £4 million scheme is backed by Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB), with Creeney highlighting the lender’s supportive role in the project. “HTB’s hands-on approach and flexibility have been invaluable. It’s rare to find a lender so committed to understanding and accommodating a developer’s needs,” he added. AD was founded in 2019 by Creeney and Bal Singh. Creeney previously worked with Yorkshire-based developers Opus North and S Harrison Developments, while Singh owned a successful chain of pharmacies across the North East. Singh commented: “Having completed three successful developments across the North East and North Lincolnshire, we’re confident in our model—revitalising brownfield sites, attracting national retailers, and creating sustainable jobs. Alongside Darlington, we’re also on-site with a major development in Sunderland.” The scheme is being marketed by @retail. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Rising costs and policy uncertainty contribute to a sharp decline in project-starts in Q.1 2025 Today, Glenigan, Powered by Hubexo (Glenigan), releases the April 2025 edition of its Construction Index, offering a detailed and comprehensive analysis of construction activity during the three months leading to the end of March 2025. The edition focuses on underlying projects valued at £100 million or less (unless otherwise specified), with data seasonally adjusted to provide an accurate reflection of sector trends against the preceding three months. The report also gives built environment professionals a unique insight into sector performance, comparing this year’s data against the same period last year. The April edition reveals a concerning decline in construction activity, with the value of projects starting on-site during this period dropping by 19%, and remaining 16% lower than the same period in 2024. This downturn points to reduced sector confidence, as developers increasingly hesitate to push forward with new projects. However, not all sectors experienced negative growth. Community and amenity projects were a relative bright spot, showing a rise in both quarter-on-quarter and year-on-year comparisons, suggesting some resilience in public-facing developments. Commenting on the outlook at the start of the year, Glenigan’s Allan Wilen said: “The latest data confirm investors’ loss of confidence. Whilst seasonal factors provide a lift to starts during the first quarter against the preceding three months, starts were 16% lower than a year ago. Developers have become more hesitant to take forward projects since the turn of the year, amid a stalled economy and heightened geopolitical uncertainty. Public sector projects have also weakened during the first three months of 2025. However, increased government capital funding from April should help lift sector activity over the coming months.” Taking a closer look at the sector verticals and regional outlook… Sector analysis – residential The residential sector experienced significant declines across both private and social housing projects. Overall, residential construction starts decreased by 12% compared to the preceding three months and were also 12% lower than the same period in 2024. Private housing construction starts saw a decline of 11% against the previous quarter and 9% compared to the same period last year, reflecting the continued caution in the housing market. Social housing starts experienced a steeper drop, decreasing by 15% against the preceding three months and standing 20% lower compared to the same time in 2024. The additional funding announced in the Spring Statement will hopefully help unlock both stalled social and private housing projects over the coming months. Sector analysis – Non-residential The non-residential construction sector presented a mixed picture in the first quarter. Community and amenity projects experienced a rise of 5% over the preceding three months and a 1% increase compared to the same period in 2024. A £21 million development at Catterick Garrison in North Yorkshire was a significant contributor to this growth. However, other non-residential sectors struggled. Industrial project starts saw a sharp decline of 28% compared to the previous quarter and were 7% lower than the same period last year, reflecting reduced investment in this area. The health and retail sectors also faced significant downturns, with health construction falling 35% against the preceding three months and 36% year-on-year, while retail dropped 34% from the previous quarter and 37% from 2024. Office construction showed more mixed results, declining 8% compared to the previous quarter but rising 3% compared to last year. Hotel and leisure projects had a particularly difficult quarter, falling by 30% against the previous three months and standing 28% lower than the same period in 2024. The education sector also struggled, with a 24% decline from the previous quarter and a 39% year-on-year decrease. Sector analysis – Civil engineering Civil engineering projects saw a significant decline in Q1, dropping 28% compared to the previous quarter and 16% year-on-year. Infrastructure projects fell by 14% from the prior quarter but showed a slight 12% increase compared to last year. In contrast, utilities experienced a sharp downturn, with starts down 43% compared to both the preceding three months and 2024. Regional outlook Regional performance across the UK varied widely in the first quarter. The North East was a standout performer, seeing an increase of 6% over the preceding three months and standing 17% higher compared to the same period last year. This growth was driven by several major projects starting in the region. In contrast, the South West experienced a more mixed performance, declining 14% from the preceding quarter but seeing a modest increase of 3% year-on-year. Northern Ireland, however, saw a sharp decline, with project starts down 43% from the previous quarter and 11% lower than the same period in 2024. London and the South East both experienced decreases in project start, with London down 10% and the South East down 11% compared to the preceding three months. Both regions also faced significant year-on-year declines, with London falling 40% and the South East dropping 18%. The weak start to Q1 2025 points to a tougher competitive landscape ahead for the construction sector. The data highlights the importance of strategic planning to navigate these challenges. However, there is some optimism, as the infusion of government funding, starting in April, is expected to help stimulate activity across key sectors and provide opportunities for growth in the coming months. To find out more about Glenigan and its construction intelligence services click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals