Savills has expanded its development project management industrial & logistics team, which is part of its building & project consultancy division, with the appointment of Susannah Packer, who joins as an associate at the firm’s Margaret Street head office in London. Susannah has over seven years’ experience working in property
Huddersfield station will reopen on Monday 29 September with three rebuilt and extended platforms under new numbering, marking an important step in the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU). From this date, only platforms 1, 2 and 3 will be in use, meaning trains will run to and from different platforms than
MILWAUKEE® introduces the brand new M12™ Multi-Directional Flood Light with PACKOUT™ Compatibility. Delivering flood lighting for any job with an adjustable light-head, multi-material mounting and PACKOUT™ compatibility for secure job site transportation. The completely versatile and compact design provides up to 1,200 lumens of TRUEVIEW™* High-Definition output to light up
Sky and Legal & General have secured planning consent to almost double Sky Studios Elstree in Hertfordshire. Hertsmere councillors have approved the £400m Sky Studios Elstree North project, adding 10 extra stages and 210,000 sq ft of Tier 1 space. The Borehamwood complex will rise to 22 stages across 65
CBRE Investment Management’s (CBRE IM) ambitious sustainability approach has been fulfilled, with the final BREEAM certification for 30 Semple Street being awarded at the top “Outstanding” level. With a final score of 93.2%, this marks a number of significant achievements for the project as it becomes Scotland’s first BREEAM Outstanding-certified
Leading office interior design consultancy, OP, has completed the refurbishment of Cooper Parry’s Manchester office. The six-week project has transformed 15,000 sq ft of existing office space, creating a workplace with a homely feel that brings elements of Manchester into the design. The refurbishment features a business lounge welcome area
Robertson Facilities Management has won a five-year, £5m contract to provide hard FM services across eight National Galleries of Scotland sites. The portfolio includes the National, Portrait, Modern One and Modern Two, the Royal Scottish Academy, and associated storage facilities around Edinburgh. Following a mobilisation phase, the contract goes live
Build UK, the leading representative body for the UK construction industry, has confirmed the appointment of Paul Brown, Chief Executive of John Sisk & Son, as its new Chair in its 10th anniversary year. Previously Vice Chair of Build UK after joining the Board in 2022, Paul brings more than
Humber Freeport has welcomed planning approval for two major developments within the Freeport’s Goole tax site in East Yorkshire. East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Planning Committee has granted full planning permission to Finnish manufacturer Metsä Tissue and commercial property developer Wykeland Group to create the UK’s largest tissue paper mill,
Darlington Borough Council has appointed a consortium led by Cityheart, with Willmott Dixon, Space Architects, Identity Consult and others, to shape a regeneration strategy for three town centre sites. The team will explore development options for East Street, Commercial Street and Kendrew Street, setting out a long-term approach to be
Savills has expanded its development project management industrial & logistics team, which is part of its building & project consultancy division, with the appointment of Susannah Packer, who joins as an associate at the firm’s Margaret Street head office in London. Susannah has over seven years’ experience working in property development, specialising in the delivery of industrial property. This involved both asset and investment management for new build projects, industrial estates and a varied portfolio of real estate, for clients including CEVA Logistics, Sandvik and Goodyear Tyres. Following a relocation from Australia, she joins from Hesperia, a boutique developer based in Perth. At Savills, Susannah will focus on supporting existing clients within the industrial & logistics sector, from both a landlord and occupier perspective. As well as working with the firm’s wide network of logistics experts to help secure new business. Susannah Packer comments: “I am excited to be joining the market leading development project management team at Savills. I look forward to working with new colleagues and other market specialists across the business on both new opportunities and also strengthening relationships with existing clients.” Will Cooper, head of the London development project management industrial & logistics team at Savills, adds: “We are very pleased to welcome Susannah, whose dynamic and detailed approach will no doubt increase our capability to offer our clients a best in class service. With a strong varied background, she brings with her a unique insight that can only be positive for the wider team” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Huddersfield station will reopen on Monday 29 September with three rebuilt and extended platforms under new numbering, marking an important step in the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU). From this date, only platforms 1, 2 and 3 will be in use, meaning trains will run to and from different platforms than before and some services will be replaced by rail replacement buses. Passengers are advised to check the latest information before travelling and allow extra time when using the station. While the station will be open, phase two of the upgrades will continue behind a sectioned-off area, allowing construction teams to complete the remaining platform, canopy and track work. Once finished in early 2027, Huddersfield station will be able to accommodate longer trains with more seating capacity, delivering more comfortable and reliable journeys. During this stage of the upgrade, some services* will be affected. Stations including Cottingley, Morley, Batley, Ravensthorpe, Brighouse, Halifax, Low Moor and Bradford Interchange will not have direct trains to Huddersfield, and customers may need to change trains as part of their journey. Passengers are advised to plan ahead and check the latest travel information at www.nationalrail.co.uk. Extra staff will be on hand at Huddersfield and other key stations to provide advice and assistance. Paul Sumner, Senior Sponsor for TRU, said: “We’re looking forward to reopening Huddersfield station at the end of this month, however, we know customers will notice some changes. This includes trains arriving/departing from different platforms and some temporary service alterations. “We want to thank customers for their patience as we continue this once-in-a-generation investment and would encourage anyone travelling through the area to plan their journey ahead of time.” Chris Nutton, Major Projects & TRU Director at TransPennine Express, said: “We’re excited to welcome customers back to Huddersfield station next week and for them to see all the work that has taken place whilst the station was closed. “As we move into phase two of the Huddersfield station upgrade, it will look and operate differently than it did before – with fewer platforms available and some minor changes to TransPennine Express services. “With one week to go before the station reopens, we encourage customers to plan ahead and check if these changes will affect you.” The Transpennine Route Upgrade is a multi-billion-pound programme transforming rail travel across the North, delivering faster journey times, increased capacity and more reliable services between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
MILWAUKEE® introduces the brand new M12™ Multi-Directional Flood Light with PACKOUT™ Compatibility. Delivering flood lighting for any job with an adjustable light-head, multi-material mounting and PACKOUT™ compatibility for secure job site transportation. The completely versatile and compact design provides up to 1,200 lumens of TRUEVIEW™* High-Definition output to light up the job from any angle. BUILT TO DELIVER TARGETED LIGHTING WHERE YOU NEED IT, THIS LIGHT IS EQUIPPED WITH 3 DIFFERENT OUTPUT MODES AND RUNS FOR UP TO 16 HOURS ON THE M12™ 4.0 AH BATTERY PACK. The multi-material mounting options include a strong magnet, integrated hand hook and PACKOUT™ cleat. The strong rear-facing magnet is made for job site surfaces like steel studs, I-Beams, and job boxes. The light’s streamlined base also gives you a handheld option for inspection lighting. Built to withstand the toughest conditions, this compact pivoting flood light has an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance. MILWAUKEE® is committed to improving productivity by providing performance-driven and trade-focused solutions so users can perform an entire day’s work on one battery system. The M12™ Multi-Directional Flood Light with PACKOUT™ Compatibility is fully compatible with the entire M12™ line, now offering more than 120 solutions. MILWAUKEE® remains unwavering in their commitment to delivering disruptive innovation by working alongside trade professionals to identify challenges and provide solutions that are unparalleled in enhancing job site safety and productivity. *TRUEVIEW™ Technology utilises the most advanced LED technology and optical designs to deliver a consistent beam, optimised colour temperature and true representation of colours and detail leading to a more productive work area Specifications M12™ Multi-Directional Flood Light with PACKOUT™ Compatibility M12 ALIP-0 Kit Includes: (1) M12™ Multi-Directional Flood Light with PACKOUT™ Compatibility To find out more about the new M12™ Multi-Directional Flood Light with PACKOUT™ Compatibility see video footage of it in action or find your nearest store, please visit www.milwaukeetool.eu Visit Milwaukee Tool UK’s Instagram and LinkedIn for further information. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Sky and Legal & General have secured planning consent to almost double Sky Studios Elstree in Hertfordshire. Hertsmere councillors have approved the £400m Sky Studios Elstree North project, adding 10 extra stages and 210,000 sq ft of Tier 1 space. The Borehamwood complex will rise to 22 stages across 65 acres and 470,000 sq ft in total. Construction is scheduled to start next year, creating around 600 jobs. The build will be on a similar scale to the original Sky Studios Elstree South complex delivered by BAM. Sky has pledged £6.5m for local road upgrades, a new community green and the safeguarding of 27 acres for wildlife. The professional team includes architect UMC, civil and structural engineer Fairhurst, and M&E consultant Hoare Lea. Sustainability measures span solar panels on every rooftop, LED lighting throughout and a fully electric vehicle fleet. The expansion will also grow Sky Up Academy Studios, offering training and career pathways for 11–18 year olds. By adding 210,000 sq ft of new Tier 1 facilities, the scheme will help address the UK’s projected 1.4m sq ft studio shortfall by 2027—capacity equivalent to at least one additional feature film a year plus multiple high-end TV productions. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
CBRE Investment Management’s (CBRE IM) ambitious sustainability approach has been fulfilled, with the final BREEAM certification for 30 Semple Street being awarded at the top “Outstanding” level. With a final score of 93.2%, this marks a number of significant achievements for the project as it becomes Scotland’s first BREEAM Outstanding-certified office building, Scotland’s highest-rated BREEAM building across all asset classes, and the second highest-scoring completed building refurbishment in the world, according to published BRE records. In addition to such other accreditations as NABERS 5*, “Platinum” scores for Air-Rated and Active Score, and an EPC “A”, the building is designed to achieve net zero carbon operation status in accordance with the UK Green Building Council’s framework definition. Zoe Gray, director at CBRE IM, commented: “Achieving the highest possible BREEAM rating for 30 Semple Street highlights our commitment to sustainability, future-proofing our assets, and delivering value to our occupiers and investors. We believe this office building embodies the future of work, providing a space designed to foster innovation and a high-quality, sustainable environment for our occupiers.” Nick Ball, managing director of Corran Properties, added: “We are delighted to have realised CBRE IM’s and our ambitions to create a genuinely class-leading office development. To have achieved such a high level of BREEAM accreditation is testament to the dedication of the entire design team who ensured every possible detail was considered in order for the building to operate as sustainably as possible.” Designed by MLA Architects, the redevelopment of 30 Semple Street comprised the strip-back to bare frame of the former office building on the site, the addition of two new floors, as well as a stunning 360-degree contemporary façade. The building has flexible floorplates up to 8,040 sq. ft. and an abundance of natural light and opening windows. The design team also included mechanical and electrical engineering consultancy K J Tait, project management and cost consultancy Axiom Services Limited, structural and civil engineering consultancy Blyth & Blyth, and Atelier Ten as fire engineering consultants. Ogilvie Construction was the main contractor. Cuthbert White and Knight Frank are marketing the remaining 25,000 sq. ft. of space in the property. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading office interior design consultancy, OP, has completed the refurbishment of Cooper Parry’s Manchester office. The six-week project has transformed 15,000 sq ft of existing office space, creating a workplace with a homely feel that brings elements of Manchester into the design. The refurbishment features a business lounge welcome area with a lounging feel that leads to the client suite. The space includes east and west wings with predominantly open plan desking, and a north wing with a mixture of open plan desking and the Orangery – an extension of the social area featuring gaming facilities including pool table, darts and ping pong, paired with various seating settings. The project has retained and celebrated the building’s original features, including parquet flooring and exposed services. The design approach emphasised sustainability through extensive reuse of existing elements including desks, task chairs, existing glazing, and minimal new partitioning. The original parquet flooring was retained and polished, with repairs made where walls had been removed. Room naming incorporates Manchester references developed with the client team, including meeting rooms called the Hacienda and the Mill. The design features Manchester’s bee culture as you enter the business lounge area. The space includes biophilia and planting throughout, with layered design elements including wallpaper, patterns, and pendant lighting replacing standard office lighting to create texture and visual interest. The project was completed while staff remained working in the building, with phasing across four areas to minimise disruption. “Our vision for Cooper Parry’s Manchester office was to create a workspace that feels authentically connected to the city while maintaining the warmth and comfort of home. “ Emily Cowgill, Designer at OP “We’re delighted with the transformed space. It looks fantastic and has been very well received by everyone in the office.” Jo Giles, Head of Facilities at Cooper Parry Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Robertson Facilities Management has won a five-year, £5m contract to provide hard FM services across eight National Galleries of Scotland sites. The portfolio includes the National, Portrait, Modern One and Modern Two, the Royal Scottish Academy, and associated storage facilities around Edinburgh. Following a mobilisation phase, the contract goes live on 1 December. Scope covers planned and reactive building maintenance together with mechanical, electrical and plumbing works. The venues hold around 120,000 works spanning Botticelli and Titian to contemporary art, including what is widely regarded as the world’s greatest collection of Scottish art. More than 2.4 million visitors passed through National Galleries of Scotland sites last year. Adrian Mole, executive managing director at Robertson Facilities Management, said: “Our experience in managing complex estates allows us to provide a high standard of service for our partners. Working with the National Galleries of Scotland provides us the opportunity to support one of the country’s most important cultural institutions while strengthening our portfolio. We look forward to developing a strong and collaborative partnership that helps the Galleries continue sharing Scotland’s art and heritage with millions of visitors each year.” The award builds RFM’s public sector footprint and supports its Edinburgh growth strategy. Earlier this year the company secured a five-year deal with National Records of Scotland and is mid-way through a separate five-year contract supporting the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service nationwide. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Build UK, the leading representative body for the UK construction industry, has confirmed the appointment of Paul Brown, Chief Executive of John Sisk & Son, as its new Chair in its 10th anniversary year. Previously Vice Chair of Build UK after joining the Board in 2022, Paul brings more than 25 years of leadership experience to the role. He is a civil engineer with a deep commitment to the power of construction to change lives and create a better future, and his election by members reflects Build UK’s central role in driving forward the industry priorities that support all sectors within UK construction. Paul’s appointment was confirmed alongside the rest of the Board at today’s AGM, where members heard directly from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, the Right Honourable James Murray MP, who outlined the Government’s ambition and commitment to deliver and maintain £725 billion of economic and social infrastructure over the next decade as set out in its 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy. Paul succeeds Julie White, Managing Director of D-Drill & Sawing which is a member of the Drilling and Sawing Association (DSA), who has successfully led Build UK for the past two years and steps down with the thanks of the Board and members. In his first speech to Build UK members at the AGM, Paul said: “Taking on the role of Build UK Chair at such a pivotal time for our industry is a huge privilege. Construction is taking an increasingly integrated approach to infrastructure planning, improving the way we deliver projects, and driving forward the highest standards of building safety. “Build UK has a vital role to play in supporting these priorities, and I look forward to working with members across the supply chain to deliver change and demonstrate the positive impact of construction on the economy and local communities across the UK.” Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol OBE welcomed Paul’s appointment, saying: “We are delighted to have Paul as our new Chair. By bringing the whole industry together around the same table, Build UK has demonstrated that it can successfully respond to the issues we face, such as the new building safety regime, and Paul’s leadership and experience will be invaluable as we navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead. “I would also like to thank Julie for her outstanding contribution over the past two years and for all her support in representing the industry since she was first elected to the Board 10 years ago.” Build UK has also appointed two new Board members – Skanska’s President and CEO Katy Dowding, and Lee Rowswell from GKR Scaffolding which is a member of the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) – who alongside the existing members of the Board will ensure Build UK continues to represent the breadth and depth of the sector. For more information on the Build UK Board, please visit: www.BuildUK.org/Board. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Humber Freeport has welcomed planning approval for two major developments within the Freeport’s Goole tax site in East Yorkshire. East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Planning Committee has granted full planning permission to Finnish manufacturer Metsä Tissue and commercial property developer Wykeland Group to create the UK’s largest tissue paper mill, together with office space and associated infrastructure. The facility, which will extend to around three million sq ft of space once complete, will be built in phases, supporting up to 400 direct jobs and creating a breadth of supply chain opportunities. It aims to increase the UK’s self-sufficiency in the manufacture of essential tissue products by more than 30 per cent. At the same Planning Committee meeting, Henry Boot Developments (HBD) and landowner St John’s College Cambridge received outline planning consent for an industrial and manufacturing park. That development sits on the south side of the Goole tax site, separated from the Metsä plot by the M62 motorway, and will create more than five million sq ft of industrial space. The site could accommodate buildings from 40,000 sq ft to one million sq ft. Both planning approvals are subject to conditions and the signing of legal agreements. Professor Neal Juster, Interim Chair of Humber Freeport, said: “This is another very significant step forward for Humber Freeport, and for the two large-scale developments within our Goole tax site. It adds to the powerful momentum behind the Freeport. “For Goole, it is further recognition of the strength of the investment proposition in the town. Its strategic location, connectivity and infrastructure make it an ideal location to invest, creating high-quality direct employment and supply chain opportunities. “We’re delighted to see Metsä Tissue and Wykeland Group secure planning permission for the tissue paper mill. It is an important investment not just for Goole, but for the wider region, boosting the Humber’s credentials as a hotbed for advanced, sustainable manufacturing. “A further economic uplift will be created by HBD and St John’s College Cambridge’s industrial and manufacturing park. Outline permission for this industrial cluster will enable the developers to market specific opportunities and take forward the strong pipeline of enquiries for the site.” Goole is one of three Humber Freeport tax sites, alongside Hull East and Able Humber Port, near Immingham. The Goole site offers exceptional transport links and connectivity via road, rail and sea, and sits adjacent to existing developments from leading businesses including Siemens Mobility, Tesco and Guardian Glass. Investing in a freeport tax site provides businesses with a range of incentives, ranging from enhanced capital allowances and employer National Insurance contributions to stamp duty land tax relief. The two newly-approved developments in Goole underline the strategic importance of Humber Freeport in attracting inward investment to the region, creating jobs, driving innovation and sustainable growth. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Darlington Borough Council has appointed a consortium led by Cityheart, with Willmott Dixon, Space Architects, Identity Consult and others, to shape a regeneration strategy for three town centre sites. The team will explore development options for East Street, Commercial Street and Kendrew Street, setting out a long-term approach to be presented to the council’s cabinet early next year. The East Street site sits next to the new HM Treasury offices within Darlington’s Economic Campus. Willmott Dixon is already active locally, building a 600-space multi-storey car park by the railway station, recently completing the Hopetown visitor attraction and refurbishing the Hippodrome Theatre. Nick Corrigan, northeast director at Willmott Dixon, said the partnership is the kind of town centre transformation where its regeneration expertise “can make a real difference”, adding the company is committed to delivering development that benefits the local community. Cllr Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy, called the appointment “a huge step forward” with the potential to be one of the town centre’s most significant improvement programmes in years. Cityheart development manager James Litherland said Darlington’s prospects have been boosted by the Treasury relocation: “We have pulled together an exemplar North East team including construction partner Willmott Dixon and we cannot wait to get started on this transformational project.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals