Kenneth Booth
Starlight Investments Significantly Increases Its UK BTR Platform with a £500M Landmark Acquisition of Three Communities

Starlight Investments Significantly Increases Its UK BTR Platform with a £500M Landmark Acquisition of Three Communities

Starlight Investments (“Starlight”), a leading global real estate investment and asset management firm, has acquired three build-to-rent (“BTR”) communities under development in Manchester and Basildon, for over £500 million. In Manchester, Starlight will be acquiring two high-rise towers from Renaker, a leading UK developer with a long-standing and successful track record.

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FIS relaunch integrated management standard to support organisational capability

FIS relaunch integrated management standard to support organisational capability

The Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) has relaunched its Integrated Management Standard (IMS) as part of a comprehensive new Organisational Capability Toolkit, to help businesses in the construction industry streamline their operations, enhance their organisational capability, and comply with the latest Building Regulations. Recent updates to the Building Regulations now

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New buyer appointed at Pinelog as part of company’s growth plans

New buyer appointed at Pinelog as part of company’s growth plans

Another new face has joined Pinelog Limited, one of the UK’s leading designers and manufacturers of luxury timber lodges and buildings. Stephen Hibbert has joined Pinelog as a buyer, taking responsibility for the procurement of thousands of items for the company. Stephen is one of four back-office appointments Pinelog has

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New facility marks BCU’s commitment to net zero homes and the construction workers of the future

New facility marks BCU’s commitment to net zero homes and the construction workers of the future

A new state-of-the-art facility created by Birmingham City University (BCU) will give students unprecedented access to the latest technological advancements in housing to widen their skillset and make them more attractive to future employers.  “We’re educating the policy makers, housing experts, and construction consultants of the future,” said building expert

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Spencer Group appointed to reconfigure Reckitt research centre

Spencer Group appointed to reconfigure Reckitt research centre

Construction and engineering specialist Spencer Group has been appointed to reconfigure part of a world-class research and development facility in Hull on behalf of global consumer hygiene, health and nutrition company Reckitt. Opened in 2019, the £105m Science and Innovation Centre is the global technical innovation hub for household name

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Panattoni UK’s €868m 2024 developments in line for Gala Awards

Panattoni UK’s €868m 2024 developments in line for Gala Awards

Every October, the Panattoni Awards and Gala in Poland captivate attendees with their incredible energy and atmosphere, and this year was no different. The event brought together over 2,000 guests from 20 countries for an unforgettable evening celebrating remarkable achievements across the Panattoni network. Representing the UK, Matthew Byrom took

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Latest Issue
Issue 330 : Jul 2025

Kenneth Booth

Starlight Investments Significantly Increases Its UK BTR Platform with a £500M Landmark Acquisition of Three Communities

Starlight Investments Significantly Increases Its UK BTR Platform with a £500M Landmark Acquisition of Three Communities

Starlight Investments (“Starlight”), a leading global real estate investment and asset management firm, has acquired three build-to-rent (“BTR”) communities under development in Manchester and Basildon, for over £500 million. In Manchester, Starlight will be acquiring two high-rise towers from Renaker, a leading UK developer with a long-standing and successful track record. Manchester has experienced among the highest population and economic growth of all major cities in the UK over the past 10 years, a trend which is expected to continue over the next decade. The first Manchester property being acquired is a 60-storey, 532-suite residential tower currently under construction in the Castlefield conservation area on the bank of the River Irwell. The location is walking distance to several transit connections and easily accessible to the vibrant business, retail and entertainment precincts of Exchange Square and Spinningfields. Upon completion, the property will include a diverse mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. Extensive high-quality amenities will include an indoor pool, co-working areas, a gym, resident lounges and an outdoor terrace. The second Manchester property is a 40-storey, 517-suite residential tower located in the city’s Greengate neighborhood. The location is a short walk from the Northern Quarter and the Manchester Central Business District (CBD). The property will feature high-quality one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and will differentiate itself through an exceptional amenity offering including a rooftop terrace, co-working areas, a gym, and resident lounges. The third property being acquired in Basildon is a 492-suite three-block, mid-rise property close to the main train station and part of an area within the city’s £600 million regeneration masterplan. Basildon is a popular commuter city and only a 35-minute train journey into central London. The property will feature one- and two-bedroom apartments and include extensive amenities such as five outdoor terraces, a gym, and co-working areas. All the properties being acquired will contain numerous sustainability features including high-efficiency lighting, solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations. These acquisitions mark a major milestone in Starlight’s European residential asset management platform which, together with previously announced acquisitions, will increase Starlight’s UK portfolio to over 3,300 units. “We are excited to announce the significant expansion of our UK portfolio with a vision to positively impact the communities where we will operate,” said Daniel Drimmer, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Starlight Investments. “These acquisitions reflect our strategy to create dynamic communities and high-quality rental housing in growing markets across the United Kingdom. Our increasing presence in the UK and our relationships with well-respected and established developers positions us strongly to deliver on our expansion strategy in the country’s growing BTR segment.” “We are pleased to have completed these two transactions with a quality and professional global partner, who shares the same vision and values to deliver market-leading build-to-rent communities. We look forward to building on this relationship in the future,” added Daren Whitaker, Founder and Chairman, Renaker. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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SP Energy Networks and ‘The Digger Girl’ join forces to promote industry safety

SP Energy Networks and ‘The Digger Girl’ join forces to promote industry safety

Electricity network operator, SP Energy Networks has joined forces with Scotland-based digger driver, mum of two and social media sensation Amy Underwood – AKA ‘The Digger Girl ®’ – to share crucial safety tips on avoiding electrical hazards when operating machinery. Their collaboration follows a rise in incidents involving underground cable strikes across the UK, which have resulted in 12 injuries and fatalities over the past year. With the potential for underground cable strikes to result in power outages, property damage or even severe injury or death, the safety messages produced with ‘The Digger Girl’ Amy are designed to ensure people know what to look out for and what to do to keep themselves and others safe when working near the electricity network. The Digger Girl – with more than 800,000 followers across her social media channels – is famous for her creative and engaging content, industry expertise and down to earth information and advice about life as a female working in the construction industry. Previously named as one of the UK’s top 100 women in construction by the National Federation of Builders, she’s now using her popular platforms to share SP Energy Networks’ top tips for staying safe when working near underground cables and overhead lines. Amy said: “As operators working in the construction industry, safety is the first thing we should all be thinking about when using machinery. When you add in the potential risks of using that equipment around underground cables or overhead powerlines, it’s even more important – we all deserve to go home at the end of the working day. “That’s why this content with SP Energy Networks is so important for people to see, and I’m proud to be part of these efforts to support a safer work site for operators like me. If I had one bit of advice, it would be to make sure you follow these easy safety tips at all times when on site – they really could save your life!” Amy’s top tips for staying safe near underground cables and overhead power lines are: Derek Bell, Health and Safety Director at SP Energy Networks, said: “It’s fantastic to have ‘The Digger Girl’ on board to help share SP Energy Networks’ vital messages about recognising potential electrical hazards and how to stay safe while working near the electricity network. We know that many people working in the construction industry will routinely follow this advice, but evidence shows that’s not always the case and one injury – or worse – is one too many when there are lots of ways to keep ourselves safe. “I’ve no doubt Amy’s reputation as a trusted and respected voice in the industry combined with her brilliant storytelling style will ensure we reach as many people as possible – it really is the perfect way to help boost industry safety.” For further information and details on SP Energy Networks construction safety advice, please visit www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/safety. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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FIS relaunch integrated management standard to support organisational capability

FIS relaunch integrated management standard to support organisational capability

The Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) has relaunched its Integrated Management Standard (IMS) as part of a comprehensive new Organisational Capability Toolkit, to help businesses in the construction industry streamline their operations, enhance their organisational capability, and comply with the latest Building Regulations. Recent updates to the Building Regulations now require businesses to demonstrate their organisational capability, ensuring that all team members are competent and supported by effective process controls. While managing foreseeable risks has always been a legal obligation, this heightened focus from clients and Building Control officers now demands clearer evidence that companies’ processes meet required standards. The FIS Integrated Management Standard (IMS), now part of a newly developed Organisational Capability Toolkit, will help companies implement tried and proven methods of streamlining their company for the benefit of their business and its stakeholders. It will help to link and contextualise the wealth of information that FIS members have available to support compliant business management and how they can use their membership to support claims of organisational capability. This IMS sits as a central resource to help align and control resources. It provides a framework for implementing risk management systems (supported by the FIS Product, Process, People Quality Framework) that will help organisations to meet statutory and legislative requirements. On relaunching the standard at the FIS Conference and AGM in November, FIS CEO Iain McIlwee said: “This standard was developed originally to support the FIS vetting process, but really comes into its own in this new environment. It is clear in our work with members that many construction firms have great processes in place, but there can be a real disjoin between these processes. “Across the sector we see design, procurement, contracts and legal, and construction processes that should complement and support each other. However, procedures often clash, cause confusion and conflict and ultimately undermine delivery. This toolkit is a great opportunity to start to look collectively at how we cannot just hit the baseline of compliance, but help to raise standards, promote professional businesses and support the ‘Responsible No’”. The new FIS Organisational Capability Toolkit is available here https://www.thefis.org/knowledge-hub/product-process-people/ . For further information or for any questions please contact the FIS at info@thefis.org or call 0121-707-0077. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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PLP lets 96,000 sq ft to BAE Systems at PLP Bessemer Park, Sheffield

PLP lets 96,000 sq ft to BAE Systems at PLP Bessemer Park, Sheffield

PLP has secured another blue-chip tenant, BAE Systems, at PLP Bessemer Park, Sheffield. BAE Systems have taken Unit 5, which is a new 96,000 sq ft, state of the art logistics and industrial facility and will create 50 new jobs for the area. This is the third successful letting at the development with 75% of the units now let, with only one unit remaining of 294,000 sq ft. This second phase of development at Bessemer Park was completed in Q1 this year and has already seen Unit 3 let to ITM and Unit 4 let to Dormole. The scheme has been delivered to best in class specification and in accordance with the UK Green Building Council’s Carbon Net Zero standard, ensuring reduced carbon emissions through construction and enabling net zero operations for all occupiers. Hugh Chesterton, Development Director at PLP, commented: “We are delighted to welcome BAE Systems to PLP Bessemer Park. It is great to have another blue-chip British business join PLP Bessemer Park. This is another stamp of approval for Sheffield’s premier industrial and logistics location.” The final 294,000 sq ft unit is immediately available to lease. Knight Frank, CBRE and Moriarty & Co (part of CPP) are the appointed leasing agents for the development. BAE Systems were represented by Colliers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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70-bedroom state-of-the-art care home development scheme in Fleet, Hampshire, sold

70-bedroom state-of-the-art care home development scheme in Fleet, Hampshire, sold

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has brokered the sale of a development site with full planning consent for a start-of-the-art care home development. Award-winning developer, Frontier Estates Limited, gained planning consent in November 2023 following an appeal process for a 70-bedroom care home in a prominent location on Cove Road in the desirable Hampshire town of Fleet. The consented care home has been thoughtfully designed and will comprise en suite wet rooms to all bedrooms and luxury resident amenities including a café, cinema, hair and beauty salon, choice of lounge and dining rooms, balcony and terrace access, and landscaped gardens. Following a sales process with Jordan Rundle and Sara Hartill at Christie & Co, the site has been purchased by leading care provider, Oakland Care, which plans to complete construction in 2027. Oakland Care develops and operates exceptional care homes across the South East of England providing residential, nursing and respite care. Fleet is a natural choice for the expansion of the group’s portfolio, where strong demographics underpinned the need for more future-proof care home provision in the area. Richard Dooley, Director of Development of Oakland Care, comments, “We are delighted to acquire this well-located opportunity from Frontier. The site provides us with a great opportunity to expand our portfolio of homes across the wider southeast area. The new home will form part of our new strategy of developing all electric-powered, net zero homes which will be BREEAM accredited.   Working with the wider Frontier and Christie & Co teams has been a positive experience and we look forward to building on both relationships moving forward.” Sophie Kowalska, Development Manager at Frontier Estates Limited, comments, “We are delighted to have secured consent on this site at appeal for a new best-in-class care home in a great home county location. It has been a pleasure working with the Oakland team, and we look forward to seeing the completed home in due course. Frontier has numerous other exciting care development opportunities coming forward through the planning process and thanks to Christie & Co, for their assistance with this sales process.” Jordan Rundle, Director – Healthcare Investment & Development at Christie & Co, comments, “Frontier Estates has achieved yet another excellent planning consent, and the sale to Oakland will introduce a best-in-class care home to Fleet. Demographic analysis identified a significant demand for elderly care home beds in the catchment which is predicted to grow materially over the next five years. It is clear that, once built, this new and exciting care home scheme will provide a much-needed service to the local community. Oakland is well positioned to serve the growing requirement for market-standard beds in the area with their existing presence in the region, and we look forward to seeing the scheme come forward in the coming months.” The site was sold for an undisclosed amount. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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New buyer appointed at Pinelog as part of company’s growth plans

New buyer appointed at Pinelog as part of company’s growth plans

Another new face has joined Pinelog Limited, one of the UK’s leading designers and manufacturers of luxury timber lodges and buildings. Stephen Hibbert has joined Pinelog as a buyer, taking responsibility for the procurement of thousands of items for the company. Stephen is one of four back-office appointments Pinelog has made in the last 12 months as part of the firm’s strategic growth plans. He brings a number of years in procurement to the role, previously being employed as a distribution category manager. Speaking about his appointment, Stephen said: “I am very proud to join Pinelog. The lodges are synonymous with quality and use premium products to ensure longevity.  As such, it is very much a case of quality over price when it comes to purchasing decisions.” Stephen’s role sees him taking responsibility of more than 3,500 in-stock items as well as sourcing additional customer-specified products for each bespoke lodge. He added: “It is a hugely challenging but very rewarding role. As we’re manufacturing each lodge from raw materials from the ground up to the finished, furnished product ready for installation, there are thousands of items involved in the production of each one. I am very much enjoying the responsibility of ensuring our production team have the products, tools and equipment to complete each lodge on time and to the highest of standards. It’s great to be part of that team.” Stephen is based at Pinelog’s headquarters and production facility in Chesterfield, Derbyshire where all lodges are manufactured. The company relocated to Chesterfield from Bakewell in 2022 to accommodate growth plans as well as allow for greater innovation and efficiency in the manufacturing process He explained: “Working alongside the team that constructs the lodges at the Chesterfield site means that I can ensure that the products not only meet the needs of our customers but also my colleagues.” As part of its growth plans, Pinelog is also recruiting a production manager to join the senior leadership team and oversee production at the Chesterfield factory. The company is also recruiting a senior lead electrician. Earlier this year, Pinelog strengthened its sales team with the appointment of Lucy Wood and Jessica Blaney, who joined sales account manager Judy Barwell, to drive forward Pinelog’s ambitions to increase its share of lodge supply to the luxury holiday park sector. If you are a holiday park operator or have land and are looking to invest in bespoke UK-designed and manufactured luxury sustainable timber lodges, speak to the sales team on 01246 942842 to discuss how Pinelog can help you. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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WAYSTONE SIGNS FOR NEW OFFICES AT RAILPEN’S 125 WOOD STREET DEVELOPMENT IN THE CITY

Waystone signs for new offices at Railpen’s 125 Wood Street development in the city

Railpen, one of the largest pension managers in the UK, has announced that Waystone, a global leader in specialist asset management services, is relocating its London team to the prestigious 125 Wood Street office development, which is now fully let. Waystone has signed for 8,078 sq ft of premium Grade A offices on the sixth floor. Located in the heart of the City, 125 Wood Street boasts a prime position near St Paul’s Cathedral, offering unrivaled access and iconic views. Railpen’s ambitious refurbishment of the former 1980s structure created 65,000 sq ft of cutting-edge, Grade A office accommodation, featuring accessible terraces on the sixth and seventh floors that provide panoramic views of London’s skyline. Alex Luker, Asset Manager at Railpen commented: “We are delighted to welcome Waystone as the final tenant at 125 Wood Street. This agreement reflects Railpen’s commitment to creating exceptional workplaces that attract globally recognised firms. 125 Wood Street has been redeveloped to create high-quality, sustainable space that aligns with the growth ambitions of top-tier occupiers like Waystone, while delivering secure long-term returns for our members.” This signing marks the completion of the leasing at 125 Wood Street, one of the most significant deals for the development this year. The new office will house approximately 100 employees and will serve as a central hub for Waystone’s operations in London. Karl Midl, Country Head – United Kingdom at Waystone said: “Our move to 125 Wood Street is an exciting step for Waystone as we continue to enhance our presence in London, a key global financial hub. The new space demonstrates our commitment to London and ensures we are well located, close to many valued clients whilst simultaneously providing a high-quality, sustainable working environment for our team.” BH2 advised Railpen in the deal, while CBRE acted for Waystone. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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New facility marks BCU’s commitment to net zero homes and the construction workers of the future

New facility marks BCU’s commitment to net zero homes and the construction workers of the future

A new state-of-the-art facility created by Birmingham City University (BCU) will give students unprecedented access to the latest technological advancements in housing to widen their skillset and make them more attractive to future employers.  “We’re educating the policy makers, housing experts, and construction consultants of the future,” said building expert Mike Leonard, a co-founder of BCU’s Centre for Future Homes.  “It’s essential our students gain first-hand experience to drive the industry forwards.  “This facility provides the perfect test bed to immerse themselves in the latest technology – and it will give BCU’s students the edge that employers are looking for.”  BCU’s Centre for Future Homes is behind the new showroom, which is located in Millennium Point and was made possible by funding from the UKRI’s Regional Innovation Fund.  It features a range of all-electric heat solutions, including heat pumps, hot water storage, panel radiators, PV, and underfloor heating, as well as ventilation options to help the more air-tight homes breathe, and walling fabric options to increase thermal insulation.   “We’re thrilled to have a new research and education hub to showcase technologies that will be used in future homes,” said Dr Monica Mateo-Garcia, Centre co-founder and academic lead.  “It’s an essential space for research collaborations and professional development training to upskill students and industry,” added Dr Mateo-Garcia, BCU built environment expert.  Climate change and building safety are the key drivers for the Centre, which launched in 2021 and is leading the transition to net zero homes.   BCU academics continue to support housing developers in a number of ways.  From helping them to deliver low-carbon new-build homes that adhere to the government’s incoming Future Homes Standard to retrofitting 26 million existing homes and developing cost-effective ways to meet the government’s target of 1.5million new homes by 2030.  The Centre’s new facility will also play a key role in developing a future-ready workforce by providing training to upskill students, practitioners, and contractors.  It’s a flagship initiative for BCU that encapsulates its newly launched 2030 strategy – to carry out research that solves problems for a more inclusive society and boost regional growth.  Professor Hanifa Shah, Pro Vice-Chancellor STEAM and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment at BCU, said: “The Centre exemplifies the spirit of our new strategy – creating knowledge for good and producing future-ready graduates.  “By collaborating with industry, our staff and students carry out applied research that benefits the region and our communities, and helps us influence policy. Long may this continue.”  The Centre for Future Homes puts customers at the heart of the journey, rebuilding the public’s trust and confidence in the construction sector by putting quality and safety first.   Professor Harris Beider, Pro Vice-Chancellor Engagement, Enterprise and Innovation at BCU, explained: “As an anchor institution in the city, it’s essential that we engage with our local communities whilst providing radical solutions that get traction in terms of changing policy.   “Working with the housing industry, we’re finding innovative ways to create safe, affordable, and good quality low-carbon homes that will make huge difference for people in Birmingham.”  In partnership with Midland Heart Housing and Keepmoat, the Centre has supported two low-carbon new build sites that meet the government’s incoming Future Homes Standard.  “Our top priority is to make sure residents are safe, happy and healthy,” said Leonard, who is a visiting professor at BCU and CEO of Building Alliance, a community interest company.  “Once constructed, the way homes are lived in effect their performance,” he added. “We’re using sensors to measure power used by appliances, temperature, and indoor air quality.   “This data is complemented by interviews with residents to understand how they operate their homes and identify opportunities to achieve optimum efficiency.”  These insights will enable policymakers to make evidence-based decisions for a safe transition to low-carbon living that avoids tragic consequences in the wake of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.  Find out more about the Centre for Future Homes and ongoing projects.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Spencer Group appointed to reconfigure Reckitt research centre

Spencer Group appointed to reconfigure Reckitt research centre

Construction and engineering specialist Spencer Group has been appointed to reconfigure part of a world-class research and development facility in Hull on behalf of global consumer hygiene, health and nutrition company Reckitt. Opened in 2019, the £105m Science and Innovation Centre is the global technical innovation hub for household name consumer health products such as Nurofen and Strepsils. It features state-of-the-art laboratories, as well as large open-plan working and collaboration areas. Spencer’s experienced Building and Civil Engineering team will remodel part of the ground and first floor of Reckitt’s Science and Innovation Centre and fit out vacated areas for laboratories and fragrance evaluation, as well as creating new ancillary spaces. The project brings together Hull-based Spencer Group and global giant Reckitt, which also has its roots in the Yorkshire city, to ensure the Science and Innovation Centre continues to fully meet the company’s evolving needs. Rob Bratherton, Operations Director at Spencer Building and Civil Engineering, said: “This is a very exciting project and an excellent fit for us, as we’re highly experienced at working in tightly-regulated sectors which have high levels of quality control. “Our Spencer Building and Civil Engineering team brings together expertise from other sectors, to ensure we’re able to deliver facilities of the highest quality, to precisely meet the needs of our clients. “This is especially important for research and development facilities, which incorporate complex laboratory rooms and sensitive technology.” The two businesses also have a shared commitment to providing education and opportunities to young people in the city, with both being founding partners of Hull’s employer led school, Ron Dearing UTC. This commitment is highlighted in the research and development facility reconfiguration, with former Ron Dearing UTC students, Isaac Barton, Alex Burr and Matthew Hunter, now being employed by Spencer Group and working on the project. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Panattoni UK’s €868m 2024 developments in line for Gala Awards

Panattoni UK’s €868m 2024 developments in line for Gala Awards

Every October, the Panattoni Awards and Gala in Poland captivate attendees with their incredible energy and atmosphere, and this year was no different. The event brought together over 2,000 guests from 20 countries for an unforgettable evening celebrating remarkable achievements across the Panattoni network. Representing the UK, Matthew Byrom took to the stage to present two prestigious awards, including UK Acquisition of the Year. Among four impressive nominees, with a combined GDV of €868 million, Panattoni Park Central A1(M) emerged as the winner. This standout 1.2 million sq ft speculative development, boasting a GDV of €216 million, is currently the largest single speculative unit under construction in the UK. The achievement highlighted the efforts of agents M1 Agency, DTRE, and Cushman & Wakefield, who have played pivotal roles in driving the project forward. Byrom also presented the Agency of the Year award to Cushman & Wakefield, recognising their exceptional deal-making contributions and longstanding partnership with Panattoni. Robert Dobrzycki, CEO & Co-owner of Panattoni, took the opportunity to congratulate global partners, teams, and collaborators, applauding their outstanding achievements in 2024. The evening was a testament to Panattoni’s commitment to impactful projects and successful partnerships. The gala once again proved to be a memorable celebration of excellence in the real estate industry. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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