Cadogan announces the appointment of Stuart Wetherly as Finance Director. Working closely with the Chief Executive and wider Cadogan team, he will play a pivotal role in driving the financial strategy to support Cadogan’s commercial success and long-term stewardship of the Estate. Stuart brings extensive experience in corporate finance and business
Abloy UK and HKC are set to make a significant impact at The Security Event 2025, inviting visitors to their collaborative stand 5/F50 to explore the latest innovations in integrated security solutions. The event takes place at the Birmingham NEC from 8th – 10th April 2025 and will feature the
Eldridge Real Estate Credit today announced the provision of a £96.7 million loan to Morar Care Group, in partnership with Simply UK, a leading care home developer and operator headquartered in Glasgow, to support the refinancing and development of premium care facilities across Scotland and South East England. Eldridge Real
Owning a home is one of the most significant investments anyone can make. Whether you plan to sell soon or want to increase the long-term value of your property, making the right upgrades can lead to substantial returns. From modern renovations to lifestyle-friendly enhancements, homeowners can take several strategic steps
A British tool manufacturer that has been crafting high-quality soft-faced hammers for over a century is proving that legacy craftsmanship remains a vital force in global industry. West Midlands-based Made in Britain member, Thor Hammer, which exports 44% of its products to 80 countries, supplies sectors including automotive, aerospace, and
Australian homewares giant Harvey Norman is set to strengthen its UK footprint with the opening of a new store and headquarters at The Gracechurch Centre in Royal Sutton Coldfield, near Birmingham. The move follows the retailer’s successful launch in England at Merry Hill in October 2024 and marks the next
The UK Government has introduced the Planning and Infrastructure Bill 2025, aiming to accelerate the delivery of new homes and key infrastructure projects. Published on 11 March 2025, with a second reading set for 12 March, the Bill reflects the Government’s commitment to streamlining planning processes to meet its ambitious
Fire stopping specialist FSi Promat has successfully reduced carbon emissions in a key part of its manufacturing process by 52.5 per cent by switching to a demand responsive system. By changing the way that a high-pressure air compressor is used at the company’s Measham factory, FSi Promat has reduced the
A majority of property managers, developers, and landlords in the UK are committed to installing electric vehicle (EV) charging in residential buildings by 2028, with most aiming for completion by 2026, according to new data from ChargeGuru UK. However, despite these pledges, progress has been sluggish due to persistent challenges.
A scheme that includes a new 3 million tonne per annum (Mtpa) electric arc furnace at Port Talbot steelworks has gained planning consent following a detailed planning process, including environmental impact assessments (EIA). In September 2023, the UK government and Tata Steel UK Limited (Tata Steel) announced a £1.25 billion
Cadogan announces the appointment of Stuart Wetherly as Finance Director. Working closely with the Chief Executive and wider Cadogan team, he will play a pivotal role in driving the financial strategy to support Cadogan’s commercial success and long-term stewardship of the Estate. Stuart brings extensive experience in corporate finance and business transformation. He joins Cadogan from Capital & Regional Plc, where he was Group Finance Director and a member of the Board of Directors. Prior to this, Stuart held senior positions at Deloitte, where he led global audits for FTSE 100 and 250 companies and played a crucial role in major corporate transactions, including M&A, capital raises and IPOs. Stuart also served as Treasurer and Trustee for the London Wildlife Trust, where he helped restructure the Trust’s funding model to ensure long-term sustainability. Hugh Seaborn, CEO of Cadogan, commented:“We are delighted to welcome Stuart to Cadogan. His extensive experience and proven leadership in financial strategy will be invaluable to the business. I am looking forward to working with him as we continue to shape the future of Chelsea, making a positive contribution towards a sustainable environment and putting the community at the heart of our commercial decisions.” Stuart Wetherly, Finance Director, added: “Cadogan is renowned for its placemaking and long-term stewardship of one of London’s most fascinating and thriving neighbourhoods. I very much look forward to supporting the continued success of this extraordinary property portfolio and helping to curate a destination where retailers, businesses and local residents flourish.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Abloy UK and HKC are set to make a significant impact at The Security Event 2025, inviting visitors to their collaborative stand 5/F50 to explore the latest innovations in integrated security solutions. The event takes place at the Birmingham NEC from 8th – 10th April 2025 and will feature the world’s leading security brands. HKC Security is presenting its range of market-leading intruder alarm products, and Abloy UK is showcasing the latest in electromechanical and digital access solutions. Abloy UK As a pioneer and market-leader in access control technology, Abloy UK will offer attendees the opportunity to experience its comprehensive range of security solutions firsthand and learn more about how they can integrate with other products within the ASSA ABLOY portfolio. The stand will feature live demonstrations of advanced systems, including: Abloy UK’s presence at the event highlights its commitment to delivering state-of-the-art solutions that enhance security, access control, and operational efficiency across a wide range of sectors including critical infrastructure. HKC HKC is offering an immersive, hands-on experience to demonstrate the full potential of its SecureWave 10270 intruder alarm control panel. Attendees can witness first-hand the powerful integration capabilities of the SW10270 panel, featuring seamless interoperability with leading security solutions, including Abloy UK’s SMARTair wireless access control system and Optex external alarm sensors. Each of these integrations will be fully operational, allowing visitors to explore the advantages of a unified security approach. In addition, HKC will showcase its latest security innovations, including the brand-new SecureHub Panel, Wireless Keypad, Solas Outdoor Siren, Video Doorbell, and Chime. The SecureHub panel will be linked to various sensors on the stand, providing a live demonstration of its capabilities via HKC’s SecureComm app. Showcasing innovation Pip Courcoux, Technical and Product Director at Abloy UK, said: “We are excited to return to The Security Event 2025 to showcase our latest innovations in access control and security. As a trusted advisor in the industry, this event allows us to get face-to-face with visitors to give hands-on demonstrations of our wide portfolio of products and explain their features and benefits. “We can also advise on which systems can be combined into bespoke solutions to suit individual requirements – whether that’s securing premises for SMEs, or providing access control for environments such as healthcare estates, university accommodation, commercial offices, utilities infrastructure, and many more. “Our team will be on hand to help visitors understand how our innovations integrate seamlessly into modern security ecosystems, providing superior control, flexibility, and reliability.” Damian Lloyd, Marketing Lead at HKC, added: “The security landscape is evolving rapidly, and integration plays a key role in future proofing systems to protect customer investments and stay ahead of emerging technologies. “Our goal at The Security Event this year is to offer an interactive and engaging experience for visitors. By setting up functional integrations, we’re allowing security professionals to see our technology in action and understand how our solutions can enhance their security infrastructure. “We believe that hands-on demonstrations are the best way to showcase the reliability, efficiency, and ease of integration that our systems provide. We want visitors to leave with a clear understanding of how HKC’s solutions can work within their own security setups, offering seamless protection and peace of mind.” Join HKC Security and Abloy UK at stand 5/F50 at The Security Event 2025 to explore cutting-edge security solutions and experience the future of integrated intruder alarm technology and digital access control. For more information on HKC Security, please visit: hkcsecurity.com For further information on Abloy UK, visit https://bit.ly/4hN2iOO, call 01902 364 500, or email info@abloy.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Eldridge Real Estate Credit today announced the provision of a £96.7 million loan to Morar Care Group, in partnership with Simply UK, a leading care home developer and operator headquartered in Glasgow, to support the refinancing and development of premium care facilities across Scotland and South East England. Eldridge Real Estate Credit is a leading investor in real estate credit opportunities throughout the US, UK, and Europe, including construction, bridge, and special situation opportunities across the capital structure. “With the median age in the UK rising, there is a growing demand for high-quality residential care homes,” said John Cole, Global Head of Real Estate Credit, Eldridge Capital Management. “The team at Morar Care Group has consistently responded to this demand, developing care facilities where resident comfort and well-being is the top priority.” This latest investment will be used to refinance five operational assets, while also providing financing for the development of two new care homes. Upon completion, the portfolio will comprise 496 operational beds across seven locations, including North Berwick, Dunfermline, Inverness, St. Andrews, and Wimborne, with Frinton and Billericay in development. “This financing enables us to continue delivering premium care to the communities and individuals that need it most,” said Chris O’Brien, CEO of Morar Care Group. “We look forward to our continued partnership with Eldridge Real Estate Credit as we expand our footprint across the UK.” Morar Care Group offers residents a variety of essential and luxury services and amenities, including 24/7 nursing care, assisted bathrooms, and tailored wellbeing and lifestyle programmes, as well as a hairdressing salon and nail bar, cinema, private dining room, tearoom, multiple social lounges and cafes, and garden enclosures. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Owning a home is one of the most significant investments anyone can make. Whether you plan to sell soon or want to increase the long-term value of your property, making the right upgrades can lead to substantial returns. From modern renovations to lifestyle-friendly enhancements, homeowners can take several strategic steps to maximize their property value. This guide explores the best investments that not only boost home value but also improve quality of life. 1. Prioritizing Indoor Air Quality for a Healthier Home A crucial factor in determining a home’s value is indoor air quality. Poor air quality can lead to health concerns and reduce the appeal of a property to potential buyers. Traditional smoking, for instance, can stain walls, leave persistent odors, and degrade air quality over time. As more homeowners adopt smoke-free lifestyles, switching to alternatives like vaping can be an effective way to maintain a fresh and odor-free indoor environment. Unlike traditional cigarettes, vaping produces minimal lingering odors, ensuring that walls and furniture remain clean and unblemished. Pro Tip: Consider installing an advanced air filtration system to further enhance indoor air quality. Potential buyers are more likely to invest in a home that feels fresh and well-maintained. 2. Kitchen and Bathroom Upgrades: The Heart of Home Improvement Kitchen and bathroom renovations consistently yield high returns on investment. Modern, energy-efficient appliances, stylish cabinetry, and high-quality countertops can significantly boost your home’s market value. A well-designed kitchen serves as the centerpiece of a home, and potential buyers often prioritize this space. Smart Kitchen Investments: Bathroom Upgrades That Add Value: 3. Creating a Smoke-Free and Modern Living Space With changing lifestyle trends, many homeowners prefer properties that maintain a clean and healthy indoor environment. Smoking indoors can lead to long-term damage, such as yellowing walls and lingering smells, which can turn off potential buyers. A growing trend among modern homeowners is the adoption of vaping, which eliminates many of these concerns while providing an alternative for those who still enjoy nicotine. For those who vape, setting up a designated vaping area such as a well-ventilated home office or outdoor patio can help maintain indoor air quality while catering to personal preferences. Many homeowners are now exploring premium vaping devices like Elux Vape to enhance their experience while keeping their living space fresh and odor-free. 4. Smart Home Technology: The Future of Property Investments Integrating smart home technology is an excellent way to future-proof your property. Smart homes are highly desirable to tech-savvy buyers who value convenience, security, and energy efficiency. Popular Smart Home Features: These upgrades not only enhance home security and comfort but also position the property as a forward-thinking investment. 5. Outdoor Spaces: Creating an Entertainment-Friendly Environment A well-designed outdoor space adds significant value to a home. Many homeowners are now investing in patios, decks, and landscaping to create inviting areas for relaxation and social gatherings. Outdoor Enhancements That Increase Property Value: For homeowners who enjoy socializing, an outdoor lounge area can also serve as a vaping-friendly space where guests can relax without affecting indoor air quality. Some even prefer modern devices like Hayati Pro Max Plus 6000, which offers a sleek and efficient vaping experience perfect for outdoor enjoyment. 6. Energy Efficiency: Lower Bills and Higher Value Eco-conscious buyers are increasingly looking for homes that support sustainability and lower energy costs. Investing in energy-efficient upgrades not only makes a property more appealing but also reduces long-term expenses. Top Energy-Efficient Investments: These upgrades can be attractive selling points when listing a home, as they promise long-term savings and environmental benefits. 7. Home Maintenance: Protecting Property Value Over Time Regular maintenance is essential to preserving and increasing home value. Many homeowners overlook small issues that, over time, turn into expensive repairs. Conducting routine inspections and addressing minor problems early can prevent major headaches down the line. Key Areas to Maintain: Keeping up with these maintenance tasks ensures that the home remains in top condition, ultimately boosting resale value. 8. Maximizing Storage Space for Functionality Storage is a significant factor for potential buyers. Homes with ample storage solutions are more attractive, as they help maintain an organized and clutter-free environment. Ways to Increase Storage Space: By enhancing storage options, homeowners create a functional and aesthetically pleasing living space that appeals to buyers. 9. The Importance of Curb Appeal First impressions matter when selling a home. Enhancing curb appeal not only attracts buyers but also reflects a well-maintained property. Simple improvements like landscaping, repainting, and upgrading the front entrance can make a significant difference. Curb Appeal Boosters: A visually appealing exterior sets the stage for a positive viewing experience and can lead to higher offers from buyers. Final Thoughts Maximizing property value involves a combination of strategic upgrades, modern conveniences, and long-term maintenance. Whether through kitchen renovations, energy-efficient solutions, or lifestyle-friendly enhancements such as smoke-free environments, homeowners can make smart investments that enhance both comfort and resale potential. By focusing on these areas, you can ensure your home remains a high-value asset in today’s real estate market. For homeowners who want to maintain a modern and fresh indoor space, switching to vaping instead of smoking can be a subtle yet effective way to preserve property value. If you’re looking for premium vaping options that cater to a healthier, odor-free lifestyle, check out [Insert Vape Link Here] for the latest products and trends.
A British tool manufacturer that has been crafting high-quality soft-faced hammers for over a century is proving that legacy craftsmanship remains a vital force in global industry. West Midlands-based Made in Britain member, Thor Hammer, which exports 44% of its products to 80 countries, supplies sectors including automotive, aerospace, and industrial engineering – with clients ranging from Formula One teams to leading manufacturers worldwide. The company, which proudly displays the Made in Britain trademark on its renowned hammer range, welcomed Solihull West & Shirley MP, Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, to its headquarters. The visit highlighted Thor Hammer’s commitment to British manufacturing and the importance of export-led growth for UK industry. Thor Hammer is a long-standing member ofMade in Britain, the globally recognised mark of British manufacturers. The membership organisation supports over 2,100 UK manufacturers, helping them navigate international markets, showcase British craftsmanship, and strengthen the reputation of British-made goods worldwide. Steve Mason, MD of Thor Hammer, said: “We’re not simply creating a product, we are passing on over a century of finely-honed skills and expertise to the next generation of craftsmen. We’re incredibly proud of our heritage and that’s why we’re thrilled to display our Made in Britain mark. It carries an awful lot of gravitas in the global market—which accounts for almost half (44% in 2024) of our trade.” Established in the 1920’s, Thor Hammer’s legacy is built on innovation. The company was tasked with producing soft-faced hammers and mallets for the war effort during WWII, with its dual copper and hide-faced design enabling critical infrastructure to be built in near silence. Today, Thor Hammer continues to apply this same expert craftsmanship to serve modern industries worldwide. The business is also recognised for its progressive approach to workforce management, having introduced a four-day workweek years before it became a mainstream discussion. This decision has helped retain skilled craftspeople, with more than half of its workforce serving over a decade with the company. John Pearce, CEO of Made in Britain, said: “Forged in Britain, wielded worldwide – our manufacturers, like Thor Hammer, showcase the strength of British craftsmanship. With every expertly made product, they reinforce the reputation of Made in Britain as a mark of quality, skill, and innovation on the global stage. I’m pleased to highlight their ongoing journey and congratulate the team on its growing success in the global export market.” Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst MP said: “It was excellent to meet Steve and his team at Thor Hammer in Shirley. Their products are world renowned and I am delighted they are crafted in the local economic hub of the Cranmore Business Park. “During the visit, I was taken through the production process and saw the precision engineering involved in producing the range of hammers on offer, all of which proudly carry the ‘Made In Britain’ trademark. I even had the opportunity to have a go at building my own hammer. We had a wide-ranging discussion on the challenges facing businesses as they seek to navigate the global market conditions.” The Made in Britain mark is a key asset for manufacturers like Thor Hammer, enhancing credibility in international markets where British-made goods are synonymous with quality. As UK manufacturing continues to compete on the global stage, organisations like Made in Britain work to champion the role of British businesses in driving skilled job creation, industrial growth, and export success. To learn more about Thor Hammer, visit www.thorhammer.com. To learn more about Made in Britain and its growing community of British manufacturers, visit www.madeinbritain.org. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Australian homewares giant Harvey Norman is set to strengthen its UK footprint with the opening of a new store and headquarters at The Gracechurch Centre in Royal Sutton Coldfield, near Birmingham. The move follows the retailer’s successful launch in England at Merry Hill in October 2024 and marks the next step in a series of planned investments across the West Midlands as part of its broader UK and global expansion strategy. Founded in 1982, Harvey Norman has grown into an international retail powerhouse, operating more than 300 stores worldwide across Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Slovenia, Croatia, New Zealand, the Republic of Ireland, and Northern Ireland. Katie Page, CEO of Harvey Norman, highlighted the region’s appeal: “The West Midlands’ high-quality retail space and excellent connectivity are key reasons we have chosen Sutton Coldfield as the home of our new UK headquarters and our next store. Gracechurch will provide a fantastic hub for our growing UK team, and I look forward to returning to the region as we advance our expansion plans.” The new opening is part of a wider regeneration initiative led by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), which is backing a multi-million-pound investment to revitalise The Gracechurch Centre. The redevelopment plans include new homes alongside enhanced leisure, retail, and commercial spaces. West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker welcomed the investment: “Harvey Norman’s decision to set up in Sutton Coldfield is a huge boost for the area. It proves that our high streets can thrive again, creating jobs and giving people more reasons to visit, shop, and socialise. “With new jobs and homes on the horizon, we are delivering real opportunities and making this town an even better place to live and work.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The UK Government has introduced the Planning and Infrastructure Bill 2025, aiming to accelerate the delivery of new homes and key infrastructure projects. Published on 11 March 2025, with a second reading set for 12 March, the Bill reflects the Government’s commitment to streamlining planning processes to meet its ambitious targets, including the construction of 1.5 million homes and the fast-tracking of 150 major infrastructure projects. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) intends for the Bill to simplify decision-making, ease planning bottlenecks, and drive forward the ‘Clean Power 2030 Action Plan’. While the proposals signal a positive shift, challenges remain, particularly around under-resourced local planning teams and the complexities of project delivery. Key Changes in the Bill Major Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs)The Bill builds on the Planning Act 2008, introducing measures to improve planning processes for critical infrastructure. National Policy Statements (NPSs) will require updates every five years, and Development Consent Orders (DCOs) will undergo streamlined pre-application consultations. The judicial review process will also be tightened, eliminating appeals for cases deemed without merit. Rob Asquith, Head of National Infrastructure Planning at Savills, noted: “Streamlining consultation will reduce complexity and cost, while updating National Policy Statements will provide better clarity. Achieving the acceleration in infrastructure and housing delivery is a long-term objective.” Planning Decisions and Local Authority ReformsA national scheme of delegation will ensure that small-scale planning applications and those aligned with local plans are determined by planning officers, rather than committees. Committee sizes will also be controlled to improve decision-making efficiency. Mandatory training will be introduced for planning committee members and mayors, ensuring decisions align with Government objectives. Additionally, local authorities will be empowered to set their own planning fees, with revenues reinvested into the planning system. However, given ongoing recruitment challenges, this measure is unlikely to be a quick fix for resource shortages. Strategic Planning and Spatial Development Strategies (SDSs)The Bill reintroduces strategic planning at a broader scale, mandating combined authorities, upper-tier county councils, and unitary authorities to produce a Spatial Development Strategy (SDS). These strategies will address infrastructure and housing distribution but will not allocate specific development sites. The role of Local Plans remains central, though there is uncertainty over how they should progress while SDSs are in development. Nature Recovery and Environmental ConsiderationsA new Nature Restoration Fund will be established to support environmental projects through pooled contributions. The Bill introduces Environmental Delivery Plans (EDPs), overseen by Natural England, which will set levy rates for developers to fund conservation initiatives. Developers making levy payments will see certain environmental impact obligations streamlined under the Habitats Regulations 2017 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Natural England will also gain Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) powers to acquire land for conservation. Development Corporations and Compulsory Purchase OrdersWhile development corporations will retain their role in regeneration and new town development, the Bill does not introduce additional planning powers. The proposed changes mainly address land assembly for infrastructure planning and transport functions. The Bill also seeks to improve the CPO process, enabling public sector-led schemes to acquire land more efficiently. Changes include allowing statutory notices to be issued electronically, simplifying information in public notices, and streamlining compensation assessments. The Government will also extend powers to limit ‘hope value’ in land acquisitions, particularly for affordable housing projects. Energy Infrastructure and Grid EnhancementsA key focus of the Bill is expediting clean energy projects to support the Clean Power 2030 targets. A ‘first ready, first connected’ system will prioritise grid connections for renewable energy developments, ensuring projects progress without unnecessary delays. Developers will be required to provide community benefits, including funding for local sports clubs and educational initiatives. A new compensation scheme will see communities receive £200,000 per kilometre of overhead electricity cable and £530,000 per substation, with some projects generating millions in local investment. Residents living within 500 metres of new electricity pylons will be eligible for up to £2,500 off their energy bills over ten years. Additionally, reforms will streamline the rollout of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. Changes to Statutory ConsulteesThe Bill follows a Written Ministerial Statement on 10 March 2025, outlining plans to reduce the number of statutory consultees, including Sport England, the Gardens Trust, and the Theatres Trust. The scope and response timeframes for statutory consultees will also be reviewed to prevent unnecessary delays in planning decisions. Local authorities will be expected to limit statutory consultee involvement where appropriate, and national policy changes will take immediate effect to streamline decision-making. Looking AheadThe Planning and Infrastructure Bill 2025 introduces a suite of reforms aimed at accelerating the planning process and addressing long-standing inefficiencies. While the measures have been largely welcomed by industry experts, their effectiveness will depend on how they are implemented in practice. As the Bill progresses through Parliament, further clarity will be needed on several key areas, including funding allocations, Local Plan transitions, and the practicalities of new planning fees. However, if delivered effectively, these reforms could mark a significant step towards meeting the UK’s housing and infrastructure goals. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Fire stopping specialist FSi Promat has successfully reduced carbon emissions in a key part of its manufacturing process by 52.5 per cent by switching to a demand responsive system. By changing the way that a high-pressure air compressor is used at the company’s Measham factory, FSi Promat has reduced the carbon emissions generated through the system by more than half. A vital part of the production process, the system supplies high pressure compressed air to machinery, used in mixing sealants and coatings. Installing a variable speed air compressor to replace its existing fixed speed one, means that the system is only using energy when it is actively needed, vastly cutting down the energy that was required for the previous ‘always on’ system. Switching the machine is one of a number of changes the company has made to support more environmentally efficient operations, including installing a new system to reduce the amount of low-risk wastewater it generates by approximately 550,000 litres a year, moving to sensor-based lighting and using renewable energy. The manufacturer has also changed shift patterns to support a 30 per cent reduction in energy use by condensing the running time of machinery. Tim Roe, Engineering and Facilities Manager at FSi Promat, said: “Since starting at FSi Promat two years ago I have been looking for ways to improve the energy efficiency of the operation to support the company’s sustainability goals – and those of the wider Etex company. “This was something I noticed that could make an immediate impact on energy use and that would not have any effect on the manufacturing process at all. The fixed speed air compressor always needed to be on, whether it was being used or not and moving to a variable speed compressor was an obvious choice. “Installed with minimal disruption, this is a like-for-like switch but due to only being engaged when the compressed air is needed it has seen a considerable reduction in the energy used to power it. “While safety must remain at the forefront in passive fire protection products, FSi Promat is constantly looking for ways to support more energy efficient operations. Here a relatively simple upgrade has made a considerable impact, and we continue to look for other changes we could make.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A majority of property managers, developers, and landlords in the UK are committed to installing electric vehicle (EV) charging in residential buildings by 2028, with most aiming for completion by 2026, according to new data from ChargeGuru UK. However, despite these pledges, progress has been sluggish due to persistent challenges. The research found that 64% of property leaders plan to retrofit EV chargers into existing developments within the next four years. More than half (54%) expect installations to take place in 2025 and 2026. However, ChargeGuru, a leading provider of fully funded and managed EV charging solutions for flats and apartments, has identified a significant gap between ambition and implementation. When asked about the obstacles preventing installation, landlords and property managers cited several key concerns: While 97% of property professionals say they are aware of how many residents in their buildings own an EV, a significant 70% of those residents still rely on public charging. Public infrastructure is expanding rapidly, with Zapmap reporting that over 20,000 new public charge points were installed in 2024, increasing the UK’s total by nearly 30% in a single year. However, home charging remains disproportionately limited to those with driveways. According to ChargeUK, approximately 800,000 home chargers were installed in 2024—primarily benefiting homeowners rather than those living in apartment buildings. With Zapmap tracking around 1.4 million fully electric cars on UK roads at the start of 2025 (rising to 2.1 million when including plug-in hybrids), there remains a substantial disparity between those who can charge affordably at home and those reliant on the pricier public network. Despite the challenges, 81% of property professionals claim to understand the process of installing EV chargers in residential buildings, and 86% are aware of government funding options available to support these initiatives. Denis Watling, Managing Director of ChargeGuru UK, emphasised the urgency of action: “While the data highlights a growing commitment to private EV charging, the reality is that many property decision-makers are yet to turn these plans into reality. To accelerate private ‘at-home’ EV charging adoption, industry leaders, the government, and the property sector must collaborate to remove key barriers. “Installing EV infrastructure is a long-term investment, and it’s crucial to implement solutions that address each building’s unique challenges—whether related to upfront costs, fair access, or ongoing maintenance. Our data shows that 75% of residents have already considered EV charging availability when moving or will do so in their next relocation. Property managers and freeholders cannot afford to delay unless they want to fall behind the competition.” With demand for EV charging only set to rise, the property sector faces increasing pressure to ensure residential developments are future-proofed for the shift towards electric mobility. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A scheme that includes a new 3 million tonne per annum (Mtpa) electric arc furnace at Port Talbot steelworks has gained planning consent following a detailed planning process, including environmental impact assessments (EIA). In September 2023, the UK government and Tata Steel UK Limited (Tata Steel) announced a £1.25 billion joint investment in the development of electric arc furnace-based steelmaking at Port Talbot to replace the coal-fired blast furnaces that have been in operation for more than 50 years. The proposals reflect Tata Steel’s long-term commitment to the production of ‘green’, low-carbon steel at Port Talbot, securing the future of steelmaking in the region and making a significant contribution to the achievement of ambitious Welsh and UK government net zero policies. Data provided in the environmental statement (RSK, 2024) indicate that greenhouse gas emissions avoided with the electric arc furnace compared with the continuation of traditional steelmaking methods are equivalent to nearly 2% of UK and 23% of Wales emissions (2027 equivalent). RSK Environment Director Rob Edwards, who led the EIA process, said: “Environmental impact assessments are required to support planning applications for major infrastructure projects, ensuring that local councils, communities and consultees understand possible environmental impacts and proposed measures to mitigate these before approving the plans. RSK Environment has coordinated the EIA work as the environmental lead for Tata Steel, working closely with the Tata Steel team, planning consultant Turley, architects Lawray, and Temple Group and JBA Consulting, both of which contributed EIA technical chapters. “Approval of the planning application is the culmination of more than three years of work from the project team. At its peak, more than 20 specialists from across the business were working on-site at any one time – this has resulted in the submission of more than 250 documents in support of the application, highlighting the scale, complexity and level of detail involved in a planning application and EIA of this nature.” As part of the EIA, a wide range of information was gathered from site surveys and assessments covering matters such as ground conditions, habitats and species, traffic and noise levels, air emissions, views of the site and population and demographic data. Rob explained: “The EIA team was required to coordinate and present this huge volume of information in the form needed to support the planning application. This involved liaising extensively with Tata Steel, the wider planning team and the local council to identify where mitigation or amendments to the scheme were necessary to overcome identified environmental concerns.” RSK Group businesses involved in delivering the environmental assessments for the project included Stephenson Halliday (landscape and visual design), RSK Acoustics (noise and vibration), RSK Biocensus (biodiversity), RSK Geosciences (land, soil and groundwater), WRc (peat assessments), Headland Archaeology (cultural heritage), SCP (transport and access), EB7 (lighting assessment) and ADAS (tree surveys). CJ Associates, Ian Farmer Associates and RSK Ordnance Management supported the completion of the ground investigation. Rob added: “Because of the scale of the planning application boundary – well over 100 hectares – the area covered by the proposed development cannot readily be described as a single ‘site’. It includes land with a wide range of different characteristics, including agricultural land, brownfield land and the existing structures of the steelworks. The EIA needed to reflect this and describe the environmental effects across all parts of the site; these were not always the same across all areas. The relationship with the historic steelworks also added complexity, with the electric arc furnace proposals needing to be considered against the context of those activities and their associated environmental impacts. “In addition to the greenhouse gas savings, the project will also result in significant reductions of air emissions, as well as reduced road traffic and remediation of previously developed parts of the steelworks. RSK is proud to be associated with a project that delivers so many environmental benefits, while securing the future of steelmaking in Port Talbot and Wales”. The planning proposals allow for green infrastructure and re-landscaping of the surrounding site to deliver ‘biodiversity net benefit’ in line with Welsh national planning policy. This will involve a range of ecological enhancements and landscaping measures focused on the southern end of the site, which is generally the most visible to the public. This will include new areas of wetland, scrub and grassland. Rob said: “In advising Tata Steel on how it may address all environmental questions raised in the assessments, particular focus was given to biodiversity enhancements. This is reflective of the fact that the steelworks comprise a very large area of land with a wide range of opportunities for enhancement and linkage with other habitats in the local area, particularly the Margam Moors site of special scientific interest to the south”. Rajesh Nair, CEO of Tata Steel UK, said: “We are very pleased to have secured approval to build sustainable steelmaking facilities in Port Talbot. This £1.25 billion investment is the most significant investment made in the UK steel industry in decades. The facility will secure high-quality steel production, preserve thousands of jobs and safeguard steelmaking in Port Talbot for generations to come.” Natalie Young, Head of Legal – Property at Tata Steel UK, added: “You cannot overstate the importance of robust and credible EIAs in such complex submissions, and having the expertise of RSK was critical in the success of the application.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals