Focus on Ground-breaking Safety Features of New Develon Series 9 DEVELON, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, has announced that it has conducted a successful field demonstration of the company‘s new DX230LC-9 23 tonne crawler excavator and its smart safety technologies, including the ground-breaking E-STOP system, at a test site in Compiègne
Park Place Retail is lacing up for a month-long challenge in support of Sri Lankan girls at risk, culminating in a 22 km trek across 16 London bridges on 16 October. Between 17 September and 16 October 2025, all 12 members of the out-of-town retail agency will collectively clock 2,300
To mark the 100th anniversary of Caterpillar®, Finning has launched its biggest ever competition, giving customers the chance to win a Cat genset or machine – plus more exclusive prizes throughout the year. The first-of-its kind giveaway is free to enter via the Finning website where; to be in with
Watsons, one of the UK’s most respected property firms, is proud to announce it is celebrating 135 years in the property industry. With a rich history that began in Norwich in 1890, the company is marking this significant milestone with a special celebration for employees, clients, and customers on Friday 19th September
International real estate advisor Savills alongside local property experts Prop-Search, has completed the letting of a 15,233 sq ft warehouse at Cabot, Kettering, to Prigmore Haulage Ltd on a 10-year lease. Prigmore Haulage Ltd, a well-established local haulage business, was seeking a modern facility with a large secure yard ready
Choosing a partner for civil work can feel overwhelming. Big stakes, tight schedules, safety rules, and community pressure create a lot of moving parts. We’ve helped teams navigate choices like this many times, and want to share a clear, practical path that helps project leaders pick a partner who delivers
Construction work has started on site to deliver parcel delivery firm DPD’s major distribution centre at a new £250 million business park in the North East, joint venture developer and investor Richardson Barberry announced today. DPD has signed a 25-year lease on a 63,000 sq ft warehouse unit on an
Leading design & build contractor, McAleer & Rushe, together with Vita Group, have celebrated a significant construction milestone with the topping out of their purpose-built student accommodation scheme at New Waverley in Edinburgh. Bringing together key project stakeholders, including senior representatives from McAleer & Rushe, Vita Group and Puma Property
Teesside’s ambitions to lead the UK’s low-carbon revolution have been handed a sizeable boost, with Saudi Arabian investor Alfanar confirming plans for a £2bn sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) plant at the North Tees industrial cluster. The Lighthouse Green Fuels project will convert around 1.5 million tonnes of waste biomass into
Options Greathire, a leading provider of luxury event furnishings, is expanding its presence at SEGRO Park North Feltham by taking an additional 20,000 sq ft of industrial space The company, known for its statement tableware and furniture for hire, already occupies an adjacent 30,400 sq ft unit and will now
Focus on Ground-breaking Safety Features of New Develon Series 9 DEVELON, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, has announced that it has conducted a successful field demonstration of the company‘s new DX230LC-9 23 tonne crawler excavator and its smart safety technologies, including the ground-breaking E-STOP system, at a test site in Compiègne in France. The demonstration was organized by OPPBTP (the French professional organization for improving health and safety in Building and Public Works) and took place at the construction site of the Seine–Nord Europe Canal project, operated by Bouygues, a leading global construction company. The OPPBTP is made up of health and safety experts from the industry, who provide daily support to professionals and stakeholders in the construction industry. Its aim is to develop practices to prevent workplace accidents and occupational illnesses to improve the health and safety of workers in the construction industry. Stephane Dieu, Product Manager for Develon Excavators in Europe, said: “It was a great pleasure to accept OPPBTP’s invitation, giving us the opportunity to demonstrate our innovative technology for reducing accident risks on earthmoving sites. Many thanks to Sébastien MARIE from OPPBTP and also to Société du Canal Seine-Nord Europe (SCSNE) for allowing this innovation to be tested on the Canal Seine Nord construction site and Bouygues Travaux Publics for conducting the tests and for their positive feedback on the E-Stop system.” As well as Bouygues, the demonstration event was also attended by representatives from four other major international construction firms – including Eiffage – as well as government representatives, the Chairman of the Board of the Seine Nord Europe Canal Company and the Safety Director of FNTP (Fédération Nationale des Travaux Publics), the French national federation representing the public works and construction industry. E-Stop, the First Safety System of its Kind as Standard on an Excavator Develon’s equipment was deployed to showcase both its core performance and advanced smart safety functions, including E-Stop, the first system from a crawler excavator manufacturer that stops the movement of the machine when a person is detected within 4 m of the excavator. Stephane Dieu continued: “The new Develon DX230LC-9 excavator used in the demonstration was equipped with a range of smart safety technologies such as collision risk warnings and around-view monitoring. Among them, the E-STOP system—similar to automotive emergency braking systems—garnered particular attention from operators and demonstration attendees. Develon plans to further develop the E-Stop system and begin launch in the European market with it installed from January of next year.” The OPPBTP (Organisme Professionnel de Prévention du Bâtiment et des Travaux Publics) was established in 1947 to address high accident rates in the construction sector. Since 2022, it has been operating the joint industry project “Stop Collision” aimed at preventing accidents between equipment and pedestrians. The recent field demonstration and showcase with Develon was conducted as part of this project. Star of the Bauma 2025 Exhibition Presented for the first time at Bauma 2025, Develon’s new Next Generation Series 9 Smart Crawler Excavator range represents the latest stage in a proud legacy at Develon that can be traced back through five generations of excavators that began with the Solar range in the 1980s. With the Series 9 range, Develon is aiming to set a new standard for future products and technologies in construction equipment. Like all Series 9 models, the DX230LC-9 achieves this goal by combining 10 (ten) ground-breaking technologies and will redefine and set new industry levels of Productivity, Safety, Operator Convenience and Sustainability. The Series 9 range not only endorses the company’s forward-thinking vision but also underscores Develon’s unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence in the construction equipment sector. Safety & Smart Features on Series 9 Machines The Smart All-Around Viewing Monitor (SAVM) is an AI-based Object Detection technology to effectively identify both moving and stationary individuals in close proximity to the machine. Upon detection, the system promptly alerts operators through a combination of visual signals and audible alarms on the monitor, ensuring a heightened awareness of the surrounding environment. The innovative E-Stop and Virtual Wall functions prevent accidents the operators are not aware of. To help ensure safety, the area surrounding the machine is clearly defined into specific zones: a yellow warning zone (Zone 2) and a red danger zone (Zone 1). The SAVM and E-Stop system utilize 6 cameras and 3 radars and work in three stages with a detection range of 6 m and 330°. The system is active only for personnel, and is able to make out the difference between people and objects: The E-Stop is an essential safety feature designed to control or halt a machine’s movement, such as driving or swinging, in cautionary or dangerous areas, thereby ensuring operator safety. The Virtual Wall feature significantly enhances operation by allowing users to confine the machine’s movement within predefined areas where the risk of collision may be heightened. For more on Develon, please visit the website: https://eu.develon-ce.com/en/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Park Place Retail is lacing up for a month-long challenge in support of Sri Lankan girls at risk, culminating in a 22 km trek across 16 London bridges on 16 October. Between 17 September and 16 October 2025, all 12 members of the out-of-town retail agency will collectively clock 2,300 km — the equivalent distance from the firm’s London office to its most northerly and southerly retail schemes. Every kilometre will count, with the team logging walking, running, cycling and swimming to hit the target before stepping out together for the London 16 Bridges Walk. Funds raised will go to Sparkes Homes Sri Lanka, a charity founded by the family of Park Place Retail’s founding partner, George Stratton, in the aftermath of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami. Sparkes Homes provides safe shelter, education and long-term support to hundreds of girls who are poverty-stricken, abused or otherwise at risk, creating pathways to healthier, more secure futures. The bridges route offers a fitting finale: a city-wide showcase that links London’s north and south banks while shining a light on opportunities the charity helps unlock half a world away. With a clear goal, a defined distance and a cause close to the company’s origins, Park Place Retail’s challenge blends team spirit with tangible impact — one kilometre, and one crossing, at a time. Donations to this cause can be made here, all of which will be matched by Park Place Retail. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
To mark the 100th anniversary of Caterpillar®, Finning has launched its biggest ever competition, giving customers the chance to win a Cat genset or machine – plus more exclusive prizes throughout the year. The first-of-its kind giveaway is free to enter via the Finning website where; to be in with a chance of winning, participants must answer the following question: ‘How would winning a Cat machine or generator help you build something that lasts?’ Entrants have up to the 31st December 2025 to answer and the winner will be given the choice between a Cat DE110E2 genset or a Cat 301.6 excavator and will also be automatically enrolled in a set of monthly prize draws – including a trip to Malaga. Tim Ballard, General Manager Retail and Marketing at Finning UK & Ireland, said: “For 92 years, Finning has been connecting customers with Cat machinery. To celebrate the impact of our combined history, and Caterpillar’s centennial year, we are offering everyone the opportunity to own a part of its heritage, whether by integrating the Cat 301.6 excavator into their operations or utilising a Cat DE110E2 genset to power essential infrastructure. “We are encouraging customers old and new to enter the competition, as well as those that have always admired Cat machines from afar, but have not had the chance to own one yet. The Cat 301.6 excavator is designed for use in a wide range of applications, such as utility installations, residential construction and demolition and will make a versatile asset to someone looking to enhance their operations in construction, landscaping or material handling. “The Cat DE110E2 gensets ensure a reliable power supply across a variety of applications: remote job sites, healthcare and commercial operations, to name a few. The robust design makes it well-suited for standby and prime power needs, and again, would be an incredible asset to the lucky winner of the centennial celebration competition.” Throughout the last century, Caterpillar has had a significant impact on UK industry, establishing major manufacturing facilities, employing thousands, and supplying machines to support multiple sectors including construction, mining and power generation. To commemorate this milestone, Finning is not only reflecting on Caterpillar’s past contributions but also looking ahead to the next century. This forward-looking approach begins with their largest-ever giveaway, designed to make a significant impact on one business. Tim added: “We hope this prize will make a real, tangible difference to a person or business, and we urge those from all backgrounds and applications to enter the competition and become part of Caterpillar’s legacy and reputation for industrial excellence as we step into the next 100 years of our combined history.” Visit http://www.finning.com/winbig to enter for free and share how winning a Cat machine or generator would help you build something that lasts? Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Watsons, one of the UK’s most respected property firms, is proud to announce it is celebrating 135 years in the property industry. With a rich history that began in Norwich in 1890, the company is marking this significant milestone with a special celebration for employees, clients, and customers on Friday 19th September 2025. Founded by Edwin Watson and his partner Mr. Sadd, who established Sadd and Watsons Estate Agents on Rampant Horse Street, the company has grown from a local estate agency to a leading multi-disciplinary property group. The firm’s journey is a testament to its enduring commitment to the core values of integrity, professionalism, and a client-focused approach laid down by its founder. “Reaching 135 years in business is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and the unwavering trust of our clients,” said Ray Smith, Chief Executive Officer. “Our heritage is the foundation of who we are today. For over a century, we’ve navigated changing markets and evolved our services, but our commitment to providing expert advice and a personal touch has remained constant.” Watsons is an award-winning firm of Chartered Surveyors with a national presence in the property industry working throughout thirty counties across the UK. Regulated by RICS and affiliated with The Property Institute, NAEA, and ARLA, Watsons offers a comprehensive range of residential and commercial services including valuation, surveying, block and estate management, lettings, and property management. The company’s enduring success is built upon a foundation of adaptability, innovation, and a commitment to upholding the highest standards of excellence. The anniversary celebration will both reflect on the company’s journey and look forward to the future. The evening will be dedicated to expressing appreciation, acknowledging the contributions of those who have helped build Watsons’ success across generations. It will also recognise the years of value and support the company has provided as a well-known brand throughout East Anglia, and a local employer with an established Head Office base in Norwich. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
International real estate advisor Savills alongside local property experts Prop-Search, has completed the letting of a 15,233 sq ft warehouse at Cabot, Kettering, to Prigmore Haulage Ltd on a 10-year lease. Prigmore Haulage Ltd, a well-established local haulage business, was seeking a modern facility with a large secure yard ready for immediate occupation. The Cabot 15 unit provided the ideal solution. Cabot Kettering comprises two fully refurbished units of 15,000 sq ft and 86,000 sq ft, benefitting from over £2 million of investment following the previous owner entering administration. With Cabot 15 now successfully let, only Cabot 86 remains available, offering a larger secure yard and canopy ideal for occupiers requiring extensive loading and distribution facilities. Situated on Kettering Park Way, Kettering Venture Park,Cabot Kettering is part of a well-established industrial and business location just off Junction 9 of the A14, providing excellent links to the A43, A6, M1 and wider national motorway network. The area is home to a skilled labour pool and is a proven logistics hub serving the East Midlands and beyond. Christian Smith, Industrial Director at Savills Birmingham, commented: “We are pleased to have secured this letting for our client Cabot. This unit has an excellent specification, and we expect the final unit on the site to be popular with occupiers who need large yards, dock doors and canopies – perfect for distribution and 3PLs.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Choosing a partner for civil work can feel overwhelming. Big stakes, tight schedules, safety rules, and community pressure create a lot of moving parts. We’ve helped teams navigate choices like this many times, and want to share a clear, practical path that helps project leaders pick a partner who delivers on time, on budget, and with quality. Why partner selection matters Good partners reduce risk. Poor choices create delays, cost overruns, and reputational damage. That’s why an upfront, structured approach saves money and stress later. Use these steps to compare firms honestly and pick a team aligned with goals. Start with clarity: define scope, outcomes, and priorities Before contacting firms, answer three questions together: When scope and priorities stay clear, proposals become comparable. That makes shortlisting easier. Evaluate technical capability and delivery experience Look beyond glossy brochures. Ask for concrete evidence: For example, reading about large-scale urban transformation projects can show how design and delivery teams coordinate on complex sites. Review case studies carefully to understand problem solving under pressure: scope changes, utility clashes, or tricky access. See a recent example of coordinated teams tackling massive transformation here: large-scale urban transformation projects. Check track record: safety, schedule, and claims history Safety and time performance tell a lot. Investigate: Ask previous clients about responsiveness during surprises. Firms that communicate clearly under pressure earn trust. Assess resourcing and supply-chain resilience Availability of equipment, skilled crews, and suppliers often determines success. Verify: Also consider firms with flexible resourcing in nearby regions. They often avoid costly downtime. Sustainability, climate readiness, and long-term performance Regulators and communities expect resilient infrastructure. Prioritize partners who can: For those wanting evidence of strong delivery systems and governance, reviewing project management best practices helps. That gives insight into how teams handle lifecycle risk and asset handover. Explore perspectives on delivery and governance here: project management best practices Quality assurance, testing, and compliance Quality processes matter from day one. Confirm partner can provide: Good handovers reduce future maintenance drama and cost. Communication, culture, and collaboration style Technical skill won’t save a project from poor teamwork. Use interviews to assess culture: Choose partners who match your communication rhythm. That keeps decisions moving. Commercial clarity: pricing, contracts, and incentives Compare proposals on apples-to-apples basis: Commercial fairness encourages innovation while protecting client interest. Local knowledge versus specialist skills Local firms bring regional know-how, permitting networks, and community relationships. National or international specialists offer niche capabilities and deep technical experience. Often, best outcomes come from blended teams that pair local insight with specialist expertise. When a civil specialty becomes essential—say complex piling or wetland restoration—check specialist portfolios and field references. For instance, when earthworks and drainage form project backbone, firms such as Solve Civil show how specialty providers support robust site delivery. Decision checklist: questions to ask final candidates Before awarding contract, confirm these items: Use scorecards to rate responses objectively. That avoids bias. Onboarding: set partnership up for success After selection, run a short onboarding sprint: Early alignment prevents costlier fixes later. Final thoughts Choosing right civil partner shapes project outcome more than any single technical decision. Focus on clarity of goals, proven delivery, resource resilience, and cultural fit. Use structured interviews, scorecards, and targeted reference checks to remove guesswork. When specialized skills matter, linking with experienced civil specialists helps fill gaps without compromising accountability. For teams wanting examples of specialty delivery on earthworks and drainage, consider how external firms integrate with main contractor teams to boost capacity without losing control. If readers want a printable checklist or a sample interview scorecard, we can share one on request. Our goal remains simple: help project leaders choose partners who build durable infrastructure, protect budgets, and earn community trust.
Construction work has started on site to deliver parcel delivery firm DPD’s major distribution centre at a new £250 million business park in the North East, joint venture developer and investor Richardson Barberry announced today. DPD has signed a 25-year lease on a 63,000 sq ft warehouse unit on an eight-acre site at Forrest Park, a joint venture between Durham County Council and local landowners the Forrest family, located next to Junction 59 of the A1(M) at Newton Aycliffe, Durham. The new hub is expected to safeguard 125 jobs for County Durham and generate up to another 250 jobs as part of the new built-to-suit DPD building at Forrest Park. Yorkshire-based main contractor Caddick Construction has been appointed by Richardson Barberry and work has now started on site. A ground-breaking ceremony was staged to mark the start of work on the site. Those attending included Councillor Andrew Husband, leader of Durham County Council, Jon Robinson, director at Richardson Barberry, Greg Kirby, project manager at Richardson Barberry, Jamie Anderson of DPD, Jason Forrest, representative of the Forrest Family, Christian Pape, business property director, Durham County Council, Mark Lee, strategic facilities manager, Durham County Council, Steve Ford, director of Caddick Construction, Steve Bell, operations director at Caddick, Michael Dennison, project manager at Caddick and Jake Clifton, of Aecom. Richardson Barberry secured reserve matters planning consent for the state-of-the-art Grade-A building which will be built with sustainability in mind to BREEAM “Excellent” standards. Jon Robinson, development director for Barberry, said: “This is a groundbreaking moment for the North East, Forrest Park, DPD and Richardson Barberry where development work has now started on site, developing DPD’s new regional distribution hub and delivering economic growth and new jobs for the region. This is the second deal at Forrest Park and it’s fantastic to see the park continue to take shape. It has been a pleasure working with the Caddick team and we are making great progress and on track for practical completion of our new DPD facility in the summer of 2026. “Our major pre-let deal with DPD – an internationally recognised occupier – demonstrates the quality of our development at Forrest Park and has enabled us to open up the site and create additional estate infrastructure and development-ready plateaus for occupiers to fast-track growth. “The site’s connectivity and proximity to the motorway junction, nearby demographic and availability of labour has proved to be a major attraction to potential occupiers who have shown interest in Forrest Park and we hope to share information relating to our next occupier transaction soon. We can deliver building opportunities on both freehold and leasehold terms from 30,000 sq ft up to one million sq ft. Newton Aycliffe is a highly attractive location for a range of major businesses due to its access to a skilled labour demographic and it is testament to the quality of Forrest Park that we have agreed pre-let terms with such a major occupier as DPD.” Louise Ferguson, head of property for DPD Group UK Ltd, said: “Forrest Park is a key location for us and it is exciting to see construction work start on site. Our new purpose-built distribution centre will enable us to expand our team to meet the growing demand locally and provide the best possible service to the area. “The new facility is part of the ongoing investment in our infrastructure as we continue to modify and expand our nationwide network of over 80 regional sorting centres to ensure we have the capacity and the speed required to run a premium nationwide, seven day a week, delivery service. We are very much looking forward to working with Richardson Barberry on this project.” Cllr Andrew Husband, leader of Durham County Council, said: “We are delighted to see work starting at the multi-million-pound Forrest Park, which is set to be a major employer in the region, creating more than 3,000 jobs. DPD is a leading international organisation, and we are pleased to know that this 25-year-lease will safeguard 125 jobs in our county and provide a huge boost to the local economy. “A lot of planning and hard work has gone into this development, so it’s exciting to see the first steps of the project taking place. We’d like to thank all our partners for their continued dedication and support.” Paul Dodsworth, Caddick Construction Group’s managing director, said: “We’re seeing significant investments in the industrial and logistics sector as our project pipeline continues to grow across the North East, and key to this is our appointment by Richardson Barberry to deliver this phase of Forrest Park. Our role in the expansion of the Durham business park also includes Caddick Civil Engineering, becoming the biggest contract to be delivered by our specialist civils business since launching in the North East region. “To help us achieve the highest standards in construction we’re working with a network of excellent regional supply chain partners, not only to provide a high-quality and efficient build but to fuel the regional economy.” Richardson Barberry has secured detailed planning consent for a development of eight warehouse units at Forrest Park with £14 million already invested on preparing the site for development. Durham County Council approved the company’s plans for the first phase development of 830,500 sq ft of warehouse/logistics space on 42-acres of the 116-acre site at Forrest Park. Forrest Park (Newton Aycliffe) Limited, a joint venture between Durham County Council and local landowners the Forrest family, signed a development agreement with Richardson Barberry. Over the next 10 years the park could provide up to 1.8 million sq ft of industrial space and create more than 3,000 jobs, boosting County Durham’s economy by almost half a billion pounds. Overall, the development will extend Aycliffe Business Park to become the largest in the North East and will accommodate a range of business, industrial, warehouse and trade units, roadside restaurants and retail space next to the A1(M). A roadside retail development by Euro Garages, including a petrol filling station, a convenience store and a KFC drive-thru restaurant, has already been built on the first plot at the site. As part of Geopost,
Leading design & build contractor, McAleer & Rushe, together with Vita Group, have celebrated a significant construction milestone with the topping out of their purpose-built student accommodation scheme at New Waverley in Edinburgh. Bringing together key project stakeholders, including senior representatives from McAleer & Rushe, Vita Group and Puma Property Finance, the ceremony marked the structural completion of the development, which will deliver a 267-bed Vita Student residence in time for the 2026 academic year. Representing the fifth project McAleer & Rushe have undertaken as part of the £240M New Waverley regeneration masterplan, the scheme is transforming a brownfield site to cater for Edinburgh’s growing need for more student accommodation. Once complete, Vita Student New Waverley will feature amenities such as a state-of-the-art gym, social and study spaces, as well as Vita Student’s industry-leading customer experience which has been designed to help students maximise their university experience and ‘Begin Big.’ This development is among a series of collaborations between McAleer & Rushe and Vita Group, including ongoing projects at Gough Street in Birmingham and India Street in Glasgow, as well as the award-winning Bruce Street scheme in Belfast. The new scheme will be the third Vita Student residence in Edinburgh, joining established sites at Fountainbridge and Iona Street. Mark Diamond, Senior Director at McAleer & Rushe said: “We’re delighted to celebrate this important milestone and reflect on the collective efforts of our partners, project team and valued supply chain in bringing this landmark development to life. We look forward to completing the scheme to the highest standards, creating a first-class living environment for students in Edinburgh while continuing to deliver lasting investment into this vibrant area of the city.” Max Bielby, Chief Operating Officer for Vita Group said: “We’re proud to celebrate the topping out of Vita Student New Waverley, marking a significant step forward in delivering our third residence in the city. Edinburgh is home to a thriving student community, and this development will provide much-needed high-quality accommodation designed to support student wellbeing and success. This milestone also reflects the strength of our trusted partnership with McAleer & Rushe, as together we continue to create outstanding student living environments across the UK.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Teesside’s ambitions to lead the UK’s low-carbon revolution have been handed a sizeable boost, with Saudi Arabian investor Alfanar confirming plans for a £2bn sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) plant at the North Tees industrial cluster. The Lighthouse Green Fuels project will convert around 1.5 million tonnes of waste biomass into up to 180 million litres of SAF each year—enough, by the developer’s estimates, to power roughly 25,000 short-haul or 2,500 long-haul flights. The scheme promises scale and speed in a market racing to decarbonise flight. By producing drop-in fuels compatible with existing aircraft and airport infrastructure, SAF is widely seen as the most immediate route to cutting lifecycle emissions from aviation while newer propulsion technologies mature. Locating a large-format plant in the Tees Valley ties production into an industrial ecosystem already geared towards energy, chemicals and advanced manufacturing. Alfanar’s commitment follows a trade mission to Riyadh by Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, who met senior company figures including vice-chairman Sabah Al Multaq while promoting the Teesside Freeport to international investors. “It is outstanding news that Alfanar has committed to delivering this project on Teesside,” said Houchen. “Developments such as Lighthouse Green Fuels put our region at the forefront of a growing industry which is primed for massive expansion.” Jobs and local supply chains stand to benefit. More than 2,000 roles are expected during construction, with ongoing opportunities in operations, maintenance and logistics once the plant is live. For contractors and suppliers, the project points to high-value packages spanning civils, process engineering, storage, utilities and grid connections, as well as specialist control and safety systems typical of complex process plants. A defining feature of the development is its planned link to carbon capture and storage (CCS). Lighthouse Green Fuels will connect to the Northern Endurance Partnership’s CO₂ transport and storage network being developed off the Teesside coast, enabling the capture and permanent sequestration of process emissions. The integration is projected to avoid more than 750,000 tonnes of CO₂ a year and underscores Teesside’s emerging role as a UK hub for CCUS-enabled industry. Public backing has helped de-risk the early phases. The Department for Transport has already awarded the scheme £40m through its Advanced Fuels Fund, recognising Lighthouse Green Fuels as one of several strategic projects putting Teesside on the UK map for low-carbon aviation fuels. The Freeport designation adds further appeal, with potential tax and customs incentives that can improve project viability and accelerate delivery. The choice of a waste-biomass feedstock reflects a push towards fuels that deliver credible carbon savings without direct competition with food crops. It also opens the door to regional partnerships on waste aggregation and pre-processing, creating a circular-economy supply chain that can grow alongside the plant. As the market evolves, close attention will fall on traceability, lifecycle accounting and the robustness of emissions verification—areas where large, integrated projects can set a benchmark. While precise construction milestones are yet to be confirmed, the scale of the investment, the CCS hook-up and the Freeport location together signal a project designed to anchor a new industrial chapter for Teesside. If delivered as planned, Lighthouse Green Fuels would materially expand the UK’s domestic SAF capacity, support thousands of jobs, and help airlines cut emissions without waiting for an entirely new fleet or fuel system. For a region reshaping its industrial identity around net-zero growth, the message is clear: Teesside isn’t just courting the future of clean industry—it is building it, at scale, on the banks of the Tees. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Options Greathire, a leading provider of luxury event furnishings, is expanding its presence at SEGRO Park North Feltham by taking an additional 20,000 sq ft of industrial space The company, known for its statement tableware and furniture for hire, already occupies an adjacent 30,400 sq ft unit and will now strengthen its commitment to the West London location. SEGRO is refurbishing the unit to high standards, meeting the customer’s specific operational requirements. In line with the developer’s commitment to Champion low-carbon growth, the facility incorporates a range of sustainability features. These include existing PV panels that support on-site renewable energy generation, as well as infrastructure for EV charging, which has been installed as part of customer-led upgrades to support more sustainable commuting. An electric boiler has also been introduced to provide a lower-carbon heating option, while retaining gas to maintain operational flexibility. The new lease brings SEGRO Park North Feltham’s occupancy to 97%, underscoring the continued demand for high-quality industrial and logistics space in key London corridors. Bernard Aherne, Managing Director, at Options Greathire, said: “We are delighted to have secured additional space within SEGRO Park North Feltham. As we continue our significant growth and embark on an ambitious five-year plan, this additional warehouse space is fundamental to our ambition. I am pleased to continue our excellent relationship with SEGRO.” Gareth Baker, Director, Western Corridor at SEGRO, said: “It’s fantastic to support Options Greathire as it continues to grow its footprint at SEGRO Park North Feltham. The expansion is a testament to the strength of its business and the ongoing demand for well-located, high-quality industrial space. “We’re proud to play a role in our customer’s success and to see continued positive momentum in the West London market.” SEGRO Park North Feltham is a highly sought-after West London industrial estate with unrivalled connectivity to Central London and Heathrow. Offering flexible and high-quality spaces from 4,000 sq ft, SEGRO Park North Feltham is home to a diverse range of businesses, big and small. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals