Taylor Wimpey East Anglia has announced that it will bring 272 new homes to Alconbury Weald, just north of Huntingdon, after receiving planning approval. The new homes will be situated close to Alconbury Weald’s Runway Park, the former runway of RAF Alconbury, which will be a central part of the
Premium footwear and clothing brand to take 1,362 sq ft at 6 Conduit Street The Crown Estate has today announced the signing of Dubarry of Ireland for a new UK flagship store at 6 Conduit Street, just off Regent Street. Occupying 1,362 sq ft, Dubarry has signed a 6-year lease
Darren Crockett, boss of RAS Crockett and Partners in Dundee, says he is ‘excited and honoured’ to take over at campaigning industry body Scotland’s largest trade construction association, SELECT has elected the managing director of a third-generation Dundee electrical company as its 68th President. Darren Crockett is Managing Director of
Roofing apprentices are opening up about the role that mentor support plays in building their confidence, enhancing their skills, and helping them progress within the trade. The insight comes from applications submitted to the 2026 BMI UK & Ireland Apprentice of the Year competition, which this year received a record
A strong and reliable supply chain is essential to the continued growth of offsite construction in the UK, and the collaboration between West Fraser and Kirkwood Timber Frame Ltd is a clear example of how aligned partnerships are helping to deliver high-quality timber buildings at scale. Founded in August 2021,
Independent UK law firm Burges Salmon has advised Tritax Big Box REIT plc, one of the UK’s leading listed investors in high-quality logistics real estate, on the completion of a £199 million sale of a portfolio of six logistics assets. The deal forms part of the FTSE100 logistics real estate
(Hillhead 2026, 23-25 June) Dräger, an international leader in medical and safety technology, will showcase a range of Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) designed to protect construction and quarrying workers from harmful particles, gases and vapours. Central to Dräger’s lineup is the X-plore 8000. A versatile, customisable system, the X-plore 8000 combines a choice of blower
Huws Gray, a leading national building materials supplier, providing end-to-end solutions to tradespeople and the DIY market, is pleased to unveil Rocklands Youth FC as the winner of its inaugural Pitch in competition, securing £5,000 worth of building materials to help transform the club’s facilities and create a more inclusive
Build-to-rent operator Quintain Living is preparing for its next phase of growth after unveiling plans to expand into third-party management, with ambitions to significantly increase the number of homes under its operational platform. The Wembley Park landlord intends to work with institutional investors, developers and asset owners by offering access
Build Concierge has continued its rapid growth across the facilities management, maintenance and field service sectors, strengthening its position as a leading provider of AI-powered automation solutions designed to improve operational efficiency and customer experience. The company, which specialises in intelligent workflow automation for service-based businesses, has reported a series
Taylor Wimpey East Anglia has announced that it will bring 272 new homes to Alconbury Weald, just north of Huntingdon, after receiving planning approval. The new homes will be situated close to Alconbury Weald’s Runway Park, the former runway of RAF Alconbury, which will be a central part of the wider open space at Alconbury Weald. Taylor Wimpey’s new homes will provide a mix of one to five-bedroom homes including houses, apartments and townhouses. More than 12% of homes will be designated to affordable housing, including affordable rent and shared ownership. Taylor Wimpey’s planning application was approved by Huntingdonshire District Council in May 2026, with works due to commence in late summer 2026 and the first homes set to go on sale in March 2027. They will form part of the wider Alconbury Weald masterplan, which is set to deliver up to 6,500 homes, local employment, education and community facilities. Andrew Wright, Acting Technical and Planning Director at Taylor Wimpey East Anglia, said:“We’re pleased to have received planning approval for our new homes at Alconbury Weald. The development already has a thriving community of new homes, open green space and community facilities that we’re proud to become a part of. Not only will we be building 272 new homes at Alconbury Weald, but we will also be contributing to the 700 acres of open space with our own pocket park. “We look forward to work commencing shortly and seeing the Alconbury Weald community continue to grow.” Mike Jenner, Development Manager for Alconbury Weald master developer Urban&Civic, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Taylor Wimpey to Alconbury Weald. These will be their first homes here, further expanding the choice and diversity of homes available to those looking to join the Alconbury Weald community. Alongside new homes, Phase 3 will deliver a range of key amenities including a health centre, community centre and library, shops and services, a sports hub and the future Runway Park, supporting the continued growth of Alconbury Weald as a vibrant and well-connected place to live.” For further information and to register your interest in the new homes at Alconbury Weald, please visit: https://www.taylorwimpey.co.uk/new-homes/cambridgeshire or https://www.alconbury-weald.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Premium footwear and clothing brand to take 1,362 sq ft at 6 Conduit Street The Crown Estate has today announced the signing of Dubarry of Ireland for a new UK flagship store at 6 Conduit Street, just off Regent Street. Occupying 1,362 sq ft, Dubarry has signed a 6-year lease for the new store, which will open this summer. The move represents an expansion from Dubarry’s existing Sloane Square location, giving the brand a stronger presence in central London and a prominent position close to Regent Street. Founded in Galway in 1937, Dubarry combines traditional craftsmanship with technical performance across footwear, clothing and accessories, creating products designed for outdoor lifestyles and long-term wear. The brand launched its first physical retail space in Dublin in 2012, followed by its first UK store in London in 2013 and Cheltenham in 2016. The latest signing marks the next stage in its UK growth, following a recent opening in Edinburgh. Dubarry of Ireland is the latest heritage-led brand to join The Crown Estate’s West End portfolio, sitting alongside iconic names such as Burberry, Barbour, and Mulberry, and most recently British travel brand Antler, whose Regent Street store opened in April 2026. The signing reinforces The Crown Estate’s strategy to curate a strong mix of quality brands across the Regent Street area. Adjacent streets such as Conduit Street play an important role, providing a complementary location to Regent Street for brands seeking central London visibility, strong footfall and access to a broad customer base of shoppers, residents, office workers and visitors. Laura Thursfield, Retail Leasing Director at The Crown Estate, said: “We are delighted to welcome Dubarry of Ireland to its new UK flagship store on Conduit Street. With its reputation for craftsmanship, quality and timeless design, the brand is ideally suited to the premium retail mix around Regent Street. “This signing reflects our continued focus on curating a balanced retail offer across the West End, bringing together established names, newer brands and evolving concepts that add variety, quality and character. This blend helps ensure the area continues to appeal to a broad range of visitors while maintaining its position as a world class destination for shopping, leisure and hospitality.” Michael Walsh, Marketing Director at Dubarry of Ireland, said: “Opening our new flagship store in The Crown Estate’s portfolio marks an exciting milestone for Dubarry. This location gives us the opportunity to showcase the full breadth of our collection in a setting that reflects both our heritage and our commitment to quality craftsmanship. As a brand with deep roots in Ireland, we are delighted to bring the Dubarry experience to one of London’s most prestigious retail destinations and look forward to welcoming both loyal customers and new audiences through our doors.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Darren Crockett, boss of RAS Crockett and Partners in Dundee, says he is ‘excited and honoured’ to take over at campaigning industry body Scotland’s largest trade construction association, SELECT has elected the managing director of a third-generation Dundee electrical company as its 68th President. Darren Crockett is Managing Director of RAS Crockett and Partners, a family firm of electrical engineers which has been operating successfully in the city since 1964. The businessman was elected at the SELECT AGM in the DoubleTree by Hilton Queensferry last week (June 4) and replaces Mike Stark, who will become Immediate Past President after two years in the position. David Harris, MD of Glasgow-based DMH Electrical Services, was elected SELECT Vice President at the same event, with Mike Campbell, Apprenticeship Programme Manager at Inverness-based RSE, the association’s new Depute Vice President. Speaking in a new video to mark his election, Darren said: “I’m extremely honoured and excited to be taking over as the new President of SELECT and it’s a privilege to be representing the Members of this historic and well-respected association. “It’s a great honour to take up this role at a time when SELECT is campaigning on a number of vitally important issues for the electrotechnical industry and wider construction sector. “I’m now looking forward to raising awareness of regulation and promoting the importance of protection of title for the electrical industry, while at the same time helping to lobby the Scottish Government to secure more funding for apprenticeships.” As a nine-strong family business, RAS Crockett, has built a strong reputation in Dundee and won Best Small Contractor at the SELECT Awards in Glasgow in 2014. The thriving family business was founded by Darren’s grandfather, Bert – a Grade One football referee – who passed it to son Sinclair in 1974 when he retired. Sinclair’s son Darren joined the company when he left school in 1986 and served as Chair of the SELECT Tayside Branch in 2013 before becoming Depute Vice President of the association in 2020 and Vice President in June 2024. Darren, whose wife, Gill, sons Liam and Kieran and uncle Paul also work in the business, said: “It’s been a great privilege to work alongside outgoing President Mike Stark during my time as Vice President. “I’d like to thank him for the invaluable insights and knowledge that he’s passed on to me and which I hope to use to equally good effect throughout my Presidency.” RAS Crockett has been a member of SELECT for all 62 years of its existence and Darren says the association has provided invaluable technical, employment, health and safety and training support down the decades. He added: “Being a Member of SELECT means we have business credibility, guaranteed customer confidence and vital access to industry experts whenever we need it.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Roofing apprentices are opening up about the role that mentor support plays in building their confidence, enhancing their skills, and helping them progress within the trade. The insight comes from applications submitted to the 2026 BMI UK & Ireland Apprentice of the Year competition, which this year received a record number of entries from apprentices. Among the 68 applicants across pitched and flat roofing categories, more than two-thirds (68%) said they would first turn to a mentor, manager or experienced colleague when faced with a challenge on site, highlighting the importance of day-to-day support in helping apprentices develop both technically and professionally. “I feel very confident and comfortable asking the people I work with,” one applicant shared, emphasising the vital role mentors play in apprenticeships. “I always ask my manager or others on site for help.” Another apprentice added: “I feel lucky, my boss is always happy to show me what to do and teach me new things. I know I can always ask for help in my company.” The findings suggest that apprentices prefer learning the trade through peer-to-peer interactions, alongside formal training routes, particularly when developing confidence on-site and learning to handle real-world challenges. When peer support is unavailable, 20% of applicants indicated they would turn to free online resources, including Instagram, YouTube, and manufacturer-led content to learn from other skilled professionals. This suggests that practical learning, whether in person or online, is still highly valued in the trade, especially given the ongoing concerns about skills shortages. “As a young person, I use YouTube to see if I can gain any knowledge there,” explained one apprentice. The findings come at a time when the roofing industry continues to face significant recruitment and retention challenges. According to the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), the UK will need an additional 3,800 roofers by 2029. However, current training routes are projected to deliver only 1,550, resulting in a shortfall of over half. Completion rates further compound this issue. The latest ‘Apprenticeship Gap Report’ reveals that the completion rate for roofing apprenticeships is just 28%, the lowest among construction trades, meaning nearly three in four roofing apprentices do not finish their training. Several applicants also expressed ambitions to progress into leadership positions or eventually establish their own roofing business, reflecting the long-term career aspirations emerging across this year’s cohort. The findings suggest strong workplace support and positive site cultures could play an important role in supporting these ambitions and improving retention within the industry. Stuart Farnell, Lead Technical Trainer at BMI Academy, said: “What stands out from this year’s applications is how much apprentices value having experienced people around them who are willing to support, teach and share their knowledge on site. “Technical training is essential, but confidence, encouragement and practical guidance also play a huge role in helping apprentices develop successful long-term careers in roofing. Creating supportive environments where people feel able to ask questions and continue learning is incredibly important for the future of the industry.” The final of the Apprentice of the Year competition will be held on July 22nd and 23rd, 2026, at the BMI Academy in Gloucestershire. To find out more about the event or training courses provided by the academy, visit: https://www.bmigroup.com/uk/bmi-academy/?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=Release&utm_campaign=Insights&utm_id=insights Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A strong and reliable supply chain is essential to the continued growth of offsite construction in the UK, and the collaboration between West Fraser and Kirkwood Timber Frame Ltd is a clear example of how aligned partnerships are helping to deliver high-quality timber buildings at scale. Founded in August 2021, Kirkwood Timber Frame has quickly established itself as a dynamic manufacturer of open and closed panel timber frame systems, supplying projects across Scotland, the Highlands and Islands, and Northern England, with reach extending across the wider UK. Today, the business produces around 1,000 plots per year, serving a diverse client base including self-builders, SME developers, housing associations, and national housebuilders. Since partnering with West Fraser in 2023, Kirkwood has standardised on the manufacturer’s panel products, embedding them across its offsite production process. According to Managing Director, Malcolm Thomson, this has been key to maintaining quality and consistency at scale. “West Fraser supplies all our OSB and chipboard flooring. Their products run right through everything we produce – it’s fundamental to our system,” he said. SterlingOSB Zero plays a central structural role within Kirkwood’s systems, used in wall panels, roof applications, floor and roof cassettes. Its consistent performance and reliability support the precision manufacturing environment required for timber frame construction. Alongside this, CaberDek is also used across floor cassette systems, offering a robust, moisture-resistant decking solution with a built-in protective layer, reducing on-site labour, and protecting floors during installation. The products are delivered directly into Kirkwood’s manufacturing facility, where they are incorporated into factory-built kits before being transported to developments across Scotland and Northern England. These systems are used in a wide range of applications, including residential housing, care homes, sports pavilions and community buildings. Included among the company’s recent work, Kirkwood also contributed to the DIY SOS project in Manchester, helping to expand the Joshua Tree Family Centre in Cheshire, doubling the size of the facility to better support families affected by childhood cancer. Kirkwood’s supply relationship with West Fraser is managed through both direct engagement, working with Nigel Morris, and through merchant partners including Jewson and Huws Gray, ensuring a consistent and flexible procurement route. The collaboration was further showcased during the Timber Learning Journey, an industry initiative supported by the Structural Timber Association (STA). Designed to provide a holistic understanding of the timber supply chain, the programme brings together industry professionals to explore each stage of the process – from responsibly sourced raw materials through to manufacturing and installation. As part of the tour, participants visited both West Fraser and Kirkwood Timber Frame, gaining first-hand insight into how engineered wood panels are produced and then transformed into complete timber frame systems. “It really shows how everything connects,” Thomson added. “You see the materials being made, and then how they become finished structures ready for site. With the number of kits we’re producing, everything has to work together,” said Thomson. “West Fraser products allow us to deliver consistently, project after project.” For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit Uk.westfraser.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Independent UK law firm Burges Salmon has advised Tritax Big Box REIT plc, one of the UK’s leading listed investors in high-quality logistics real estate, on the completion of a £199 million sale of a portfolio of six logistics assets. The deal forms part of the FTSE100 logistics real estate investor’s strategy to recycle capital and increase investment in higher-growth opportunities across its development pipeline. The disposals comprised big box and urban logistics assets located at Leamington Spa, Peterborough, Didcot and Kettering. The assets generate total contracted annual rent of £12 million. Burges Salmon provided legal advice to Tritax Big Box throughout the transaction, supporting on all aspects of the sale process. The Burges Salmon team advising on the transaction was led by Ross Polkinghorne with support from Jonathan Cantor, Gregory Nash, Ceren Ghanem (corporate real estate), Alexander Clayton, Matt Sims, Jess Garner, Emma Everett, Megan Long and Kate Davies (real estate), Matt Tucker (planning), Christian Mulhilvill (construction) and Hilary Barclay and Jess Chesterfield (real estate tax) Bjorn Hobart, Investment Director at Tritax Big Box, comments: “We are pleased to have completed this £199 million transaction with EQT Real Estate, with the proceeds enabling us to invest in higher-returning development opportunities while further strengthening our financial position. The Burges Salmon team provided clear, commercially focused advice throughout and were a pleasure to work with.” Ross Polkinghorne, Partner at Burges Salmon, adds: “We are pleased to have supported Tritax Big Box on this significant portfolio sale. The transaction highlights the enduring attractiveness of prime logistics assets and the sophistication of investors operating in this space. Working closely with the Tritax Big Box team, we were able to deliver pragmatic, solution-focused advice to help achieve a successful outcome.” This is the latest of a series of deals that the Burges Salmon’s real estate team have advised Tritax Big Box on – the last being the £1b+ acquisition from Blackstone last year which helped to promote Tritax to the FTSE 100. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
(Hillhead 2026, 23-25 June) Dräger, an international leader in medical and safety technology, will showcase a range of Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) designed to protect construction and quarrying workers from harmful particles, gases and vapours. Central to Dräger’s lineup is the X-plore 8000. A versatile, customisable system, the X-plore 8000 combines a choice of blower units with headpieces including hoods, face shields, helmets, and welding visors, as well as a comprehensive selection of filters, charging options, carrying solutions, and accessories. The newly launched X-plore 8300 will be another important element of the Dräger’s stand. The smallest and lightest PAPR in its class, the 8300 is designed for safe and intuitive operation and easy cleaning. The rugged unit provides reliable respiratory protection, even in the demanding environments seen in construction and quarrying, and also offers excellent wearing and breathing comfort. Visitors will also be able to see how the Dräger X-plore 8500 blower unit provides respiratory protection and comfort without breathing resistance. Built for daily use in tough industrial environments, it combines robust construction with low-maintenance operation. A wide range of accessories makes the system fully customisable to specific workplace needs, and safety functions help minimise user errors while ensuring reliable protection. For hazardous atmospheres, the Dräger X-plore 8700 Ex is engineered for environments with flammable or combustible substances and potentially explosive atmospheres. ATEX-certified, the unit is approved for use in Ex zones 1, 2, 21, and 22. Encapsulated electronics, anti-static materials, and smart supervisory controls ensure both safety and operational reliability in the most demanding conditions. Tom Pearson, Marketing Manager (Industry) Breathing Systems & Engineered Solutions at Dräger says Hillhead provides an excellent platform to demonstrate the breadth of Dräger’s expertise in respiratory protection: “Our X-plore PAPR range is built to deliver reliable, comfortable, and flexible protection for workers exposed to dust and hazardous particles, reflecting our commitment to safety in industrial environments.” Dräger’s stand is located at RC7 in the registration Pavillion. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Huws Gray, a leading national building materials supplier, providing end-to-end solutions to tradespeople and the DIY market, is pleased to unveil Rocklands Youth FC as the winner of its inaugural Pitch in competition, securing £5,000 worth of building materials to help transform the club’s facilities and create a more inclusive environment for players, volunteers and the wider community With grassroots football playing a vital role in bringing people together, improving wellbeing and creating inclusive spaces for local communities, Huws Gray launched Pitch in to support these community hubs that face growing financial pressures and struggling with outdated or inadequate facilities. Based in Norfolk, Rocklands Youth FC supports 10 teams from Under 7s through to Under 15s, including two female teams, and is run by 24 dedicated volunteers. The club plans to use the building materials donation to refurbish its clubhouse and bathroom facilities, ensuring it is inclusive and accessible for all players, volunteers, families and visitors. The improvements will help the club meet growing demand, support participation across all age groups and provide a welcoming community hub for local residents, reflecting Huws Gray’s commitment to giving back to its communities and relating to its sponsorship of the Professional Game Match Officials. Daksh Gupta, CEO of Huws Gray, commented: “Grassroots football clubs play a vital role in bringing communities together, creating opportunities for young people and providing welcoming spaces for families and volunteers. Clubs are under increased financial pressure, leaving essential repairs unresolved. Pitch In strives to help create safe spaces for all who use a club’s facilities, supporting our local communities and providing more opportunities for young people to stay active and connect with one another. Rocklands Youth FC impressed us with its commitment to inclusivity, the impact it has on its local community and its clear vision for how these improvements will benefit players for years to come. We’re delighted to support the club through Pitch in and look forward to seeing the transformation take shape.” Rhys Verney, Chairman of Rocklands Youth FC, said: “We’re delighted to have been selected as the winner of Huws Gray’s Pitch in competition. It’s an excellent initiative that recognises the important role grassroots football clubs play in their local communities and provides practical support where it can make a real difference. Providing invaluable help to Rocklands, the building materials will help us improve our clubhouse and facilities, benefiting our players, volunteers, families and visitors, while helping us continue to grow and provide opportunities for young people in our community.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Build-to-rent operator Quintain Living is preparing for its next phase of growth after unveiling plans to expand into third-party management, with ambitions to significantly increase the number of homes under its operational platform. The Wembley Park landlord intends to work with institutional investors, developers and asset owners by offering access to the technology, systems and expertise it has developed over the past decade operating one of the UK’s largest professionally managed rental communities. According to the company, the move has the potential to more than double the size of Quintain Living’s existing platform over the medium term, positioning the business as a major player in the growing operational management market within the build-to-rent sector. Quintain Living currently manages more than 3,500 homes across Wembley Park and has developed an integrated operating model centred around technology, resident experience and hospitality-led service delivery. The company has invested heavily in its digital infrastructure, including bespoke systems designed to streamline the resident journey from initial enquiry through to long-term occupation. These include digital viewing technology, online leasing platforms and a dedicated resident app enabling tenants to make payments, submit maintenance requests and engage with community activities. Supporting its operational approach is a proprietary utility-monitoring system that tracks energy and water consumption in individual homes at 15-minute intervals. The data allows teams to identify unusual patterns, improve efficiency and proactively address maintenance concerns before they escalate. Alongside technological innovation, Quintain Living has focused on creating a hospitality-inspired rental experience, supported by on-site concierge teams, maintenance professionals and community managers dedicated to enhancing resident wellbeing and satisfaction. The announcement coincides with Quintain Living’s tenth anniversary at Wembley Park. Since launching in 2016 with a team of just seven employees, the business has expanded to more than 100 staff members and now manages a monthly rental portfolio exceeding £7.5m. Having delivered more than 4,300 purpose-built rental homes to date, with a further 2,700 in the pipeline, Quintain believes its operational expertise can now be successfully applied beyond Wembley Park. The move reflects a wider trend within the build-to-rent sector, where professional management, customer experience and technology-driven operations are increasingly viewed as critical factors in attracting residents, improving retention and delivering long-term value for investors. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Build Concierge has continued its rapid growth across the facilities management, maintenance and field service sectors, strengthening its position as a leading provider of AI-powered automation solutions designed to improve operational efficiency and customer experience. The company, which specialises in intelligent workflow automation for service-based businesses, has reported a series of new customer wins alongside growing recognition within the FM and property services sectors. Among the latest additions to its client portfolio is IRM Group, a specialist drainage services provider operating around the clock. Build Concierge’s AI platform is being integrated into the business to support emergency call handling, improve response times and enhance customer communications, helping streamline operations within a highly time-sensitive environment. The company has also highlighted the continued success of its deployment with Commercial Maintenance Services U.K. Ltd., a national maintenance provider employing more than 150 field engineers. Integrated directly within the customer’s Joblogic platform, the solution automates a range of administrative workflows while providing 24/7 AI-powered communication channels, enabling teams to focus on customer service and business growth. Within the facilities management sector, Build Concierge has also gained recognition through its inclusion in the Tomorrow’s FM Yearbook 2026/27. The company’s technology is increasingly being adopted as an intelligent operational layer that supports helpdesk teams, automates job logging and improves service delivery across FM environments. The platform has already been deployed across a growing number of businesses, including organisations operating in industrial services, property maintenance, refrigeration, gas services and engineering sectors. Integrations with leading software platforms such as Joblogic, BigChange, Simpro, CAFM systems and workforce management solutions are helping customers automate routine tasks while maintaining seamless communication with clients and contractors. Alongside its commercial growth, founder Martin Port has relaunched his weekly industry blog, The Growth Leader, providing insight into the challenges and opportunities of building an AI-focused technology business within the trades, maintenance and service sectors. As demand continues to grow for automation, data-driven decision-making and round-the-clock customer engagement, Build Concierge is positioning itself at the forefront of a new generation of AI-powered operational tools helping facilities management and service businesses operate more efficiently, improve customer satisfaction and unlock long-term growth opportunities. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals