Construction contractor McLaughlin & Harvey has completed construction of the new Braintree Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC). Now handed over to Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, local people are one step closer to benefiting from faster access to tests and scans. The Trust will now complete the final fit-out
Construction is restarting on the £500 million 100 Kensington development in West London after developer SevenCapital stepped in to take direct control of the project following the administration of main contractor Ardmore. SevenCapital has confirmed that Seven Capital (Woodrow) Ltd, an existing group company incorporated in 2016, is now acting
Deal reinforces confidence in London’s commercial property market and OSiT’s owner-operator model Today, Office Space in Town (OSiT), one of London’s leading flexible office space providers, has announced the completion of a re-financing agreement reflecting growing confidence and investment appeal in London’s commercial property market. The debt refinancing is valued at £129 million
A full planning application for the scheme to transform Piccadilly Gardens has been submitted. The submission – the latest landmark in delivering the proposals to make Piccadilly Gardens more colourful, more vibrant, safer and more inviting – follows public consultation on the plans earlier this summer. Subject to planning permission being granted this autumn, work to
Workman LLP has strengthened its retail and leisure property management business with the appointment of Matthew Gioia as a partner, marking his return to the firm where he began his property career 16 years ago. Gioia will co-lead Workman’s London retail and leisure team alongside partner Chris Church, with responsibility
Yorkshire housebuilder Newett Homes has appointed Zoe Wheatley as sales and marketing director, recognising the significant contribution she has made since joining the business. With 22 years of industry experience, Zoe began her career as a sales executive before progressing through a range of senior roles. She joined the Wetherby-based
A new guide to help construction clients better understand their responsibilities under Building Regulations and the Building Safety Act has been published by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). The free guide is aimed at anyone commissioning building work on behalf of a business, public body, charity or other non-domestic
Workspace Design Show returns to the Business Design Centre, London on 24–25 February 2027, unveiling its new theme: “The Human Experience of Work”, a direction placing wellbeing, inclusion, sensory comfort, belonging, neurodiversity and emotional experience at the center of workplace design. As organisations continue to rethink what makes people want
The Southampton and South Coast industrial and logistics market has delivered a strong performance in H1, according to figures by global real estate advisor CBRE. CBRE Southampton let a total of 320,000 sq ft of space in eight transactions across the region, which included Yunex Traffic taking 160,000 sq ft
Industry initiative will help individuals gain recognised accreditation and begin or progress a career in demolition The National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC), in partnership with the National Demolition Training Group (NDTG), is offering 60 fully funded CCDO Labourer Card pathway places to eligible individuals seeking to start or progress
Construction contractor McLaughlin & Harvey has completed construction of the new Braintree Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC). Now handed over to Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, local people are one step closer to benefiting from faster access to tests and scans. The Trust will now complete the final fit-out and installation of equipment before welcoming its first patients at the beginning of September. Located on the site of Braintree Community Hospital, the centre will offer around 75,000 additional diagnostic appointments in its first year. This will help improve access to vital tests, including CT and MRI scans, ultrasounds, blood tests and heart and lung checks closer to home. The Braintree CDC will be open seven days a week, offering a convenient one-stop shop for checks, tests and scans, all under one roof. The centre represents a major investment in diagnostic services across mid and south Essex and will play a key role in helping patients receive earlier diagnoses and treatment. Braintree CDC is part of a national, Government-funded programme to increase diagnostic capacity. This project has been delivered via the Crown Commercial Services framework. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction is restarting on the £500 million 100 Kensington development in West London after developer SevenCapital stepped in to take direct control of the project following the administration of main contractor Ardmore. SevenCapital has confirmed that Seven Capital (Woodrow) Ltd, an existing group company incorporated in 2016, is now acting as main contractor on the major West Cromwell Road scheme, allowing work to resume following a temporary halt caused by Ardmore’s collapse. The 1.7-hectare mixed-use development will deliver 462 homes across seven buildings, comprising 276 private and 186 affordable properties alongside new leisure, retail, office and community space. A new senior construction management team has been established to oversee delivery under SevenCapital Chief Operating Officer James Moody, working alongside the developer’s construction director and existing site management team. SevenCapital expects activity to ramp up significantly over the coming months, with more than 500 construction workers anticipated to be back on site by the autumn. The developer said it had been aware of financial difficulties facing Ardmore and had developed a contingency strategy to protect the delivery of the scheme in the event of the contractor entering administration. Moody said: “We had previously been aware of some of the financial issues facing Ardmore, which allowed us the time to develop a solid contingency plan to secure the completion of 100 Kensington should the effective administration happen, and at the same time diversify and extend SevenCapital’s capabilities for future schemes.” Existing development finance remains in place through Maslow Capital, which originally provided a £258 million four-year facility for the joint venture between SevenCapital and MARK Capital Management. The project has already passed the 30% completion milestone, with construction progressing across one of the most significant residential developments currently underway in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. At the heart of the scheme will be Oria, a 29-storey residential tower containing 129 private apartments and penthouses. SevenCapital is targeting an October topping-out for the tower as the wider construction programme gathers pace once again. The architectural masterplan for 100 Kensington has been produced by John McAslan & Partners, with Corstorphine & Wright responsible for the detailed design. Alongside its residential element, the combination of commercial, leisure and community uses will create a substantial new mixed-use destination on West Cromwell Road, with affordable housing representing a significant part of the overall development. The decision to bring construction delivery under a SevenCapital group company provides the developer with greater direct control over the remaining programme while limiting disruption following Ardmore’s administration. Phased completions are expected to begin during the fourth quarter of 2027, with the entire development currently scheduled for completion towards the end of 2027 or beginning of 2028. With work restarting and the existing funding package remaining in place, the focus will now turn to rebuilding site activity and maintaining momentum towards the October topping-out of Oria and subsequent phased delivery of the wider 100 Kensington development. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Deal reinforces confidence in London’s commercial property market and OSiT’s owner-operator model Today, Office Space in Town (OSiT), one of London’s leading flexible office space providers, has announced the completion of a re-financing agreement reflecting growing confidence and investment appeal in London’s commercial property market. The debt refinancing is valued at £129 million and extends over a minimum two-year period. Asset managers Aberdeen Investments are the senior lender in the agreement with a backing of c. £72 million, with theagreement continuing Aberdeen Investments’ seven-year partnership with OSiT. The deal, completed with the support of financial advisors PwC, will provide ongoing financial support for four of OSiT’s Zone 1 London office buildings, including St Paul’s, Liverpool Street, Monument and Waterloo. The company’s UK office portfolio comprises 225,000 sq. ft of office space, with additional locations in London Blackfriars and Cardiff. OSiT’s flexible workspaces are distinguished by unique themes such as the Alice in Wonderland inspired OSiT Waterloo, the ‘super yacht’ designed OSiT Monument and the Monopoly themed OSiT Liverpool Street. According to real estate services agency CBRE, flexible offices are set to comprise a fifth of London’s market by 2030, as businesses increasingly seek adaptable workspace solutions that provide shorter commitments, faster access to prime locations and the ability to scale their footprint in response to changing workforce needs.1 Founded in May 2009 by brother and sister Giles and Niki Fuchs, alongside partner Sarah Singlehurst, OSiT is the only flexible office provider in London that owns all its buildings. OSiT buys, refurbishes and occupies its buildings, allowing the company to benefit from the current low capital costs of buying Zone 1 London office buildings, and create large capital uplift and strong income streams. This owner-operator model enables the company to curate bespoke ‘Omni-Office’ environments tailored to occupier demand and optimise layouts and office amenities in its buildings at scale. Examples of integrated amenities at current OSiT sites feature gyms, bedrooms, rooftop cafe bars, games rooms and hairdressers. As of June 2026, the average length of stay across OSiT’s five London locations is 44 months, double the London flexible office market average of 22 months.2 OSiT is now looking for an investment partner to support its plans to acquire new buildings in Zone 1 locations and continue to scale its proven owner-operator structure. The next phase of investment would enable the company to advance its ‘Omni-Office’ vision, focused on introducing larger, integrated work environments. Future buildings could introduce additional on-site amenities such as rooftop padel courts, day nurseries and dental practices, creating mixed-use workplaces that adapt to evolving expectations on the workplace experience and incentivise office attendance. Giles Fuchs, Co-Founder of Office Space in Town (OSiT), comments: “This refinancing agreement marks an important milestone for OSiT and reflects the strength of our owner-operator model. We have built a differentiated business focused on capital gain and robust income, through service, design, and long-term relationships with occupiers, and this support enables us to continue strengthening our portfolio and delivering exceptional flexible workspaces.” Martin Barnewell, Head of Commercial Real Estate at Aberdeen Investments, said: “We have had a long-term relationship with Giles and the OSiT team. Having gone through the Covid lockdown, we have seen first-hand how resilient their income and model is. We are pleased to continue to support OSiT and look forward to the next chapter of their growth.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A full planning application for the scheme to transform Piccadilly Gardens has been submitted. The submission – the latest landmark in delivering the proposals to make Piccadilly Gardens more colourful, more vibrant, safer and more inviting – follows public consultation on the plans earlier this summer. Subject to planning permission being granted this autumn, work to make the plans a reality will begin as soon as possible. Public consultation on the detailed design built on previous extensive consultation about what people wanted from Piccadilly Gardens and included drop-in sessions and an online questionnaire. Hundreds responded and were broadly supportive of the plans, with more than half (58%) believing they will provide a safe and welcoming new space, 67% saying they provided clear walking routes and almost three-quarters (70%) saying they would create a greener and more colourful space. Concerns were raised by some about anti-social behaviour and how the transformed Piccadilly Gardens will be kept inviting. The Council and its partners, including Greater Manchester Police and Transport for Greater Manchester, recognise that creating a better Piccadilly Gardens cannot just be about physical improvements but will also require new ways of managing the space to ensure it is maintained as a safe and inviting space. Work to develop this new way of managing the space is ongoing and improvements are already underway, including a strengthened police presence through GMP’s dedicated neighbourhood policing team. In addition to the main consultation, a series of listening and engagement sessions were also carried out with parents and children around the refreshed children’s play area to ensure it reflects their aspirations. New images of how the children’s play area will look have been released as part of the wider application. Key elements of the application include: The plans will also support a safer space through improved sightlines, better lighting and enhanced CCTV. Interim Council Leader Cllr Garry Bridges said: “The moment has arrived when we’re ready to submit our planning application to transform Piccadilly Gardens. It’s taken a lot of work to get to this significant point. “Residents have told us loud and clear what they want from Piccadilly Gardens. They want the area to look better and feel safer and that’s exactly what we’re going to deliver. “There has already been significant investment in the area – including extra police and council resources – with even more on the way. “This application will see a much-improved space: Putting the Gardens back in Piccadilly Gardens, providing a better children’s play area and supporting a more inviting place all round.” The application reference is PLA-2026-001348 viewable at: https://arcusbe.manchester.gov.uk/pr/s/detail/a1DSl000009RsaD Once the physical works are completed, the Council aims to ensure a regular stream of bespoke family-friendly activity and seasonal events to enjoy. The new scheme will complement other changes taking place in the immediate vicinity of the Gardens, including the major Rylands redevelopment (of the Grade II-listed former Debenhams building) which is creating a new office, retail and leisure destination, and the recently-approved plans to refurbish and improve One Piccadilly Gardens . Further planned improvements to the area around Piccadilly Gardens in the coming years will include a multi-million pound investment by Transport for Greater Manchester to create a new, modern transport interchange. In March this year Galliford Try were appointed as lead contractor, working with landscape architect and lead designer Planit and civil, structural and highways engineers Civic to deliver the Piccadilly Gardens transformation. City of Manchester Chief Inspector Mike Tachauer said: “We welcome the next phase of the planning application for the new-look Piccadilly Gardens. Senior officers have been involved in consultations from the outset to ensure there is a strong policing input into these plans. Piccadilly Gardens is a space that everyone should feel safe and secure when travelling in and around the area. Our officers have ensured that elements pertaining to public safety have been one of the key focuses in the planning process including better lighting and more CCTV. “We have had several experienced police officers who have strong experience around policing Piccadilly Gardens who have given an input to these plans, and there are a number of elements we have learnt from, for example, understanding how planters can be misused by those involved in criminality and how we can deter this from happening. “There is also cross organisational understanding that the safety of the Gardens is a multi-agency partnership that we all need to be involved in to ensure everyone is doing their bit to keep our communities safe.” Vernon Everitt, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester, said: “These exciting plans for Piccadilly Gardens will bring vast improvements for everyone who passes through it and for the numerous businesses who operate in the vicinity. The Bee Network is already transforming how people move around Greater Manchester and we are developing plans with the local community for a modern transport interchange linking buses, Metrolink and active travel that will help create a city centre that is greener, better connected and welcoming for everyone.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Workman LLP has strengthened its retail and leisure property management business with the appointment of Matthew Gioia as a partner, marking his return to the firm where he began his property career 16 years ago. Gioia will co-lead Workman’s London retail and leisure team alongside partner Chris Church, with responsibility for a number of key client relationships as the property specialist continues to invest in its retail and leisure capabilities. The appointment brings Gioia back to Workman following extensive experience across the UK commercial property sector. He originally joined the company’s Manchester office through its graduate scheme before moving to Savills, where he spent four years. He subsequently joined MAPP and has spent the past eight years with the business, helping to lead its retail team and developing significant experience in the management of retail property and client portfolios. His return comes at an important time for the retail and leisure property market, with owners and asset managers increasingly focused on creating well-managed, commercially resilient destinations capable of responding to changing occupier and customer requirements. Gareth Soar, partner at Workman LLP, said: “Matthew joins a team that’s already delivering great results for our retail and leisure clients, and he brings a wealth of experience in the sector to the role. “His appointment reflects our continued investment in specialist talent, and I’m confident he’ll play a key part in helping the team grow and continue to deliver a great service for our clients.” Gioia added: “It’s great to be back at Workman. The firm has grown considerably since I left, but that focus on doing things properly is still very much at the heart of how the team works. “I’m looking forward to working alongside Chris and the wider team, and to putting my experience to work for our clients.” The appointment adds further senior-level expertise to Workman’s retail and leisure property management operation, with Gioia’s experience across different property businesses providing a strong platform to support existing clients and the team’s future growth. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Yorkshire housebuilder Newett Homes has appointed Zoe Wheatley as sales and marketing director, recognising the significant contribution she has made since joining the business. With 22 years of industry experience, Zoe began her career as a sales executive before progressing through a range of senior roles. She joined the Wetherby-based developer as sales and marketing manager in May 2025 and was promoted to head of sales in August the same year. As sales and marketing director, she will now lead the company’s sales and marketing strategy, driving the sales team to achieve its targets and support the wider objectives of the business. Zoe’s responsibilities also include raising brand awareness of Newett Homes’ product and its developments, overseeing all aspects of marketing, and ensuring customers continue to receive an exceptional level of service. Commenting on her new position, Zoe, said: “Newett Homes is an ambitious organisation with a fantastic product, and I’m delighted to have been recognised for my part in driving its success. “I am excited to build on our strengths, raise standards across sales and marketing, and help the business achieve its growth plans while continuing to enhance the brand and customer experience.” Established in 2017, Newett Homes is an award-winning housebuilder dedicated to delivering quality-led homes in hand-picked locations. Employing over 70 people, the business currently has 10 active developments, supported by a growing land pipeline. In April the housebuilder marked a significant step in its growth strategy by acquiring a seven-acre greenfield site in Kirton in Lindsey, Lincolnshire, which is its first development site outside Yorkshire. In March 2026, it was awarded its first five-star rating from the Home Builders Federation (HBF) recognising the businesses continued commitment to excellence in build quality and outstanding customer experience. Newett Homes chief executive, Will Newett, said: “Zoe has made a considerable impact on the business since joining us and has demonstrated the leadership, expertise and drive needed to take our sales and marketing function forward. “Her commitment to developing the team, strengthening our brand and delivering an outstanding experience for our customers will be invaluable as we continue to expand and I look forward to working closely with her as we deliver the next stage of our growth plans.” For more information about Newett Homes visit https://newetthomes.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new guide to help construction clients better understand their responsibilities under Building Regulations and the Building Safety Act has been published by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). The free guide is aimed at anyone commissioning building work on behalf of a business, public body, charity or other non-domestic organisation. It clearly sets out a client’s legal duties under the Building Safety Act 2022, as well as helping identify which projects are and are not subject to Building Regulations. The guide also includes a checklist clients are recommended to follow in advance of each project, which covers checking the competence of experts, confirming processes for managing compliance and checking if their project is categorised as a high-risk building. Ayo Allu, Chair of CIOB’s Client Steering Group, said: “As a client your role is no longer simply to commission construction work. You should help ensure it is properly planned, managed and delivered in compliance with the Building Regulations, keeping in mind the decisions you make before and during the project influence safety, quality and compliance. “You are not expected to be a technical expert. However, you are expected to make informed decisions, appoint competent people, provide necessary information to your contractor and estate manager, maintain records and remain engaged throughout the project. “It is not uncommon for projects to be derailed when clients are unaware of the level of involvement they need to have and only realise when it’s too late. By empowering clients to make good decisions from the outset and fulfil their legal obligations, their relationships with their contractors are likely to be easier and their projects more successful.” To download the new guide visit CIOB Building Regulations August 2026.pdf Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Workspace Design Show returns to the Business Design Centre, London on 24–25 February 2027, unveiling its new theme: “The Human Experience of Work”, a direction placing wellbeing, inclusion, sensory comfort, belonging, neurodiversity and emotional experience at the center of workplace design. As organisations continue to rethink what makes people want to come together in person, the 2027 edition will explore how workplaces can move beyond functionality to become environments that genuinely support people. Spaces designed around human connection, comfort, mood, acoustics, hospitality, inclusivity and how work environments make us feel. The theme will shape the entire visitor experience across the show floor, influencing exhibitor booths and product launches, installations and immersive spaces created in collaboration with feature partners. Designers, architects, manufacturers and workplace brands will interpret the theme through original concepts and experiences, creating highly engaging environments that demonstrate how design can positively influence workplace culture, productivity and wellbeing. Confirmed brands already joining the 2027 edition include Brunner, Bisley, König + Neurath, KI Europe, Milliken, and Interface, alongside a line-up of workplace brands helping shape commercial interior design. Workspace Design Show is the UK’s only dedicated platform for workplace interiors, where architects, designers and occupiers come to source products, meet suppliers and push the conversation around how we design for work. It is where project decisions get made, new supplier relationships are formed, and the ideas shaping tomorrow’s workplaces get debated live on stage. Visitors can expect an expanded exhibition floor, workplace product launches, immersive installations and a comprehensive content programme exploring the trends, strategies and ideas transforming workplace environments. Returning conference pillars include: Workspace Design Talks — exploring the latest trends and insights shaping workplace design, strategy and culture. Sustainability Talks — bringing together key figures driving sustainable thinking and initiatives across workplace design. Occupiers Forum — providing “The View from HQ”, sharing insights into how employers are creating engaging and high-performing workplace experiences. FIS: Interiors Insight Live — delivering the latest thinking, innovation and expertise from the finishes and interiors sector. The Workspace Design Awards will also return in 2027, celebrating exceptional workplace projects and design concepts. Judged exclusively by corporate occupiers, developers and project managers, the awards recognise ideas and projects delivering meaningful real-world impact. Key dates and entry information will be announced soon. In 2027, expect a bigger room, a sharper programme and industry-defining conversations that continue to make Workspace Design Show the event the workplace community comes back to year after year. Join the workplace design community on 24–25 February 2027 at the Business Design Centre, London. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Southampton and South Coast industrial and logistics market has delivered a strong performance in H1, according to figures by global real estate advisor CBRE. CBRE Southampton let a total of 320,000 sq ft of space in eight transactions across the region, which included Yunex Traffic taking 160,000 sq ft of space at Bournemouth Airport, the largest letting on the South Coast so far this year. The site will serve as Yunex’s UK headquarters after it relocated from an existing site in Poole. Other key transactions included two units at Sonar in Portsmouth at a combined 30,196 sq ft, which were taken by global engineering and infrastructure firms and brought the development to 60% occupancy, while 37,000 sq ft was also let at Penta Park and 28,000 ft2 at Proxima Park (Phase 1), which took both estates to full occupancy. Southampton’s positive figures mirror the progress seen across the wider South East region, where H1 take-up was 1.2m sq ft. A further 615,000 sq ft of space was under offer in the region at the end of Q2, a 61% increase quarter-on-quarter.* Nick Tutton, Director at CBRE Southampton, said: “We’ve seen a healthy amount of activity in the first half of the year which demonstrates resilient occupier demand and whilst vacancy rates have increased across most regions over the previous quarters, we are anticipating the limited development pipeline and sustained take-up levels on the South Coast will cause vacancy rates to fall during the rest of 2026.” CBRE’s UK Real Estate Market Outlook Midyear Review is available here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Industry initiative will help individuals gain recognised accreditation and begin or progress a career in demolition The National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC), in partnership with the National Demolition Training Group (NDTG), is offering 60 fully funded CCDO Labourer Card pathway places to eligible individuals seeking to start or progress a career in the demolition industry. The initiative has been created to remove some of the financial barriers that can prevent people from accessing industry-recognised training and employment opportunities. The campaign is part of the NFDC’s wider commitment to supporting the demolition sector, strengthening its workforce and encouraging more people to become appropriately trained and qualified. Each funded pathway includes both the CCDO Labourer training course and Asbestos Awareness training, providing successful learners with the qualifications required to apply for a CCDO Labourer Card. Before attending the training, applicants must have passed the required Operative Health, Safety and Environment test. Candidates are encouraged to complete the appropriate test through CITB or NOCN. Applicants must also be able to understand, communicate and read English to the level required to participate safely and successfully in the training. Courses will take place during September, October and November 2026 and will be delivered either live online or at the NDTG training centre in Hemel Hempstead. Adrian Corrigan, President of the NFDC, said: “Supporting people into demolition and helping them gain recognised industry accreditation is an important part of our role as a Federation. “This initiative is about creating opportunities, supporting the future workforce and helping more people enter the industry with the knowledge and qualifications they need to work safely and responsibly. “Demolition offers a wide range of long-term career opportunities, and we hope these funded places will provide a valuable first step for people who may not otherwise have been able to access the training.” Whether applicants are considering a completely new career or are already working in construction and want to develop specialist demolition skills, the opportunity offers a chance to join one of the built environment’s most dynamic and highly skilled sectors. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals