GB Bank has supported the first stage of financing a £33 million mixed-use property portfolio across London, completing a structured funding solution in just seven days to help an experienced property investor meet a demanding exchange deadline. Working alongside SHC Capital, GB Bank provided an initial lending facility to be
Workplace consultancy, Blueprint Interiors, is celebrating its 25th year in business with two new appointments, reinforcing its growth ambitions and commitment to investing in people. Tom Beeson has joined the Ashby-based company as Associate Project Director and Gemma Wort as Accounts Assistant Apprentice. Tom’s appointment marks the creation of a
The Schindler X8 elevator has received two coveted international product design awards in recognition of its outstanding aesthetic design. The Schindler X8 has won two of the world’s most respected seals of design quality: a Red Dot Award: Product Design 2026 and an iF DESIGN AWARD 2026. The Schindler X8 impressed
The government’s ambitions to build 1.5 million homes, upgrade home energy standards, and deliver a £725 billion long-term infrastructure pipeline will depend on a significant expansion to the construction workforce – and stronger employer involvement in training the next generation of workers, according to a new report from the National Audit Office (NAO) published today.
New research from Landlord Studio reveals the toll MTD is taking on the UK’s landlords, as they increasingly look to rely on letting agents to make sense of the shift New research from Landlord Studio, the property accounting and compliance software company, finds that almost a quarter (22%) of UK
As the Federation of Master Builders marks its 85th anniversary, members from across the UK reflect on the businesses, communities and industry the FMB has helped shape over the past eight decades. From Glasgow to Cheltenham, builders reflect on eight decades of craft, community and change as the Federation of
The Government Property Agency’s (GPA) Birmingham hub has become the first public sector building in the world to retain a coveted quality mark. Its flagship site at 23 Stephenson Street has secured Leesman+ accreditation – a prestigious global workplace experience rating – for the second time, demonstrating a sustained commitment
Cheltenham Borough Council and its development partner HBD have commenced construction on the first phase of Golden Valley – a £1 billion cyber and technology campus in Cheltenham which will be central to driving growth and innovation in UK National Security and Defence. The news marks a significant milestone in
Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned developer of industrial real estate, has secured planning consent for T Park Southampton, a new Grade A industrial and logistics development at Salisbury Road, Totton. The scheme will deliver five detached speculative units, providing around 223,000 sq ft of high-quality space in one of
A joint venture between Countryside (part of Vistry) and L&Q has welcomed Chelmsford City Council’s Planning Committee resolution on 30th June 2026 to grant outline planning permission for Zone 2 of the Chelmsford Garden Community. This decision represents a significant milestone in delivering one of the UK’s most ambitious new communities
GB Bank has supported the first stage of financing a £33 million mixed-use property portfolio across London, completing a structured funding solution in just seven days to help an experienced property investor meet a demanding exchange deadline. Working alongside SHC Capital, GB Bank provided an initial lending facility to be secured against an unencumbered portfolio of stabilised, income-producing assets, unlocking equity to support the borrower’s exchange on the wider acquisition within the same tight window. The structure created a clear funding pathway across the transaction, securing favourable commercial terms from the outset. The transaction was structured to support the borrower’s longer-term acquisition strategy, demonstrating GB Bank’s ability to deliver flexible funding solutions that help experienced investors execute complexed property transactions at pace. The borrower is an established property investor with a long-standing track record and ownership of more than £500m worth of real estate. Security for the facility comprised of a well-performing, income-generating portfolio with strong occupancy levels, enabling GB Bank to act quickly while maintaining its disciplined and prudent approach to lending. The transaction highlights GB Bank’s ability to combine responsive decision-making with structured funding expertise, supporting complexed and multi-asset transactions while maintaining robust lending fundamentals. GB Bank would like to thank Simon Noonoo, Partner at Seddons, for his legal support throughout the transaction, and Simon D’Archy at Savills for acting as valuer within the strict timelines. Pankaj Thukral, Chief Lending Officer and Deputy CEO at GB Bank, said: “This transaction demonstrates the value of combining speed, flexibility and commercial understanding to help clients seize significant opportunities. By working closely with Tony Tadros at SHC Capital, we were able to structure a solution that unlocked equity from an existing portfolio, enabling the borrower to exchange on the wider acquisition within just seven days. “Complexed transactions require more than fast decisions – they require a funding partner that understands the bigger picture. Our relationship-led approach allowed us to support the client’s wider acquisition strategy from the outset, providing certainty of funding while maintaining the prudent underwriting standards that underpin every deal we complete.” Hardik Gogia, Relationship Manager at GB Bank, said: “Understanding a sponsor’s wider strategy is what allows us to structure funding that works today and tomorrow. In this case, we were able to release equity from an existing, well-performing portfolio at pace, giving our client the certainty they needed to exchange on the next stage of their acquisition. “It’s a good example of how a relationship-led approach and disciplined credit process aren’t mutually exclusive. Working closely with Tony Tadros at SHC Capital, and with strong support from Simon Noonoo at Seddons and Simon D’Archy at Savills on valuation, we delivered both speed and structure on a genuinely complex transaction.” Tony Tadros, Director at SHC Capital, added: “We consider GB Bank a long-term partner, and once again they delivered under significant pressure. This was a complex transaction with a demanding timeline, requiring all parties to move quickly. Throughout the process, the GB Bank team remained responsive, pragmatic, and solutions-focused, ensuring a successful outcome. Simon Noonoo at Seddons and Simon D’Arcy at Savills were first class at every step.” For more information, please visit gbbank.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Workplace consultancy, Blueprint Interiors, is celebrating its 25th year in business with two new appointments, reinforcing its growth ambitions and commitment to investing in people. Tom Beeson has joined the Ashby-based company as Associate Project Director and Gemma Wort as Accounts Assistant Apprentice. Tom’s appointment marks the creation of a new senior role within the business. With 25 years’ experience in the commercial interiors sector, he’ll work alongside the directors to help shape Blueprint’s strategic direction and support the company’s future growth. Tom has previous affiliation to the business, having previously worked with Blueprint as a subcontractor and helped to successfully deliver one of Blueprint’s largest projects to date. Gemma joins Blueprint’s growing finance team, supporting the accounts function while developing her skills through a structured apprenticeship programme. Her appointment reflects Blueprint’s continued commitment to creating opportunities for young people. John Tansur, Commercial Director at Blueprint Interiors, said: ” As we celebrate 25 years in business we are firmly looking to our future. Tom’s appointment is an important milestone for us – his experience, commercial insight and understanding of our sector make him the ideal person to help us shape the next phase of our growth. “Creating this new role demonstrates our ambition as we ensure we’re well positioned to continue delivering exceptional outcomes for our clients as the cornerstone of our business. At the same time, we’re passionate about investing in emerging talent and recognise the importance of providing opportunities in our community and sector. Bringing Gemma into the business through an apprenticeship reflects our investment in the next generation. Welcome to both.” Tom Beeson, Associate Project Director at Blueprint Interiors, said: “Having worked alongside Blueprint previously, I’ve admired the team’s collaborative approach and commitment to delivery, so joining the team feels like a natural next step. Throughout my career I’ve focused on project planning, contract management and delivering high-quality interior refurbishment projects and I’m pleased to bring that experience to this new role, and to contribute to Blueprint’s continued growth.” Gemma Wort, Accounts Assistant at Blueprint Interiors, said: “Joining Blueprint is a great opportunity for me. I’m excited to be learning on the job, building my knowledge and being part of a company that’s investing in its people. I’m looking forward to developing my skills and seeing where my apprenticeship takes me.” The appointments mark the latest investment in Blueprint’s future as the company continues to grow its team, strengthen its expertise and build on 25 years of successful delivery. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Schindler X8 elevator has received two coveted international product design awards in recognition of its outstanding aesthetic design. The Schindler X8 has won two of the world’s most respected seals of design quality: a Red Dot Award: Product Design 2026 and an iF DESIGN AWARD 2026. The Schindler X8 impressed international design experts with its approach to residential elevator design, rethinking how an elevator looks and feels inside the home. It moves away from the traditional image of an elevator as a functional, industrial product and transforms it into a piece of contemporary design that can blend seamlessly into a building’s architecture and interior. Created for homes and residential buildings, the Schindler X8 incorporates minimalist doors, carefully designed interior packages and a clean aesthetic that brings warmth, simplicity and visual harmony to vertical mobility. The result is an elevator that is not only functional but also an integrated part of the living environment. “We are extremely proud to win two highly respected international design awards,” said Amanda Driehorst, Strategy and Sales Manager, Business Innovation Team, Schindler. “A great deal of emphasis was placed on the aesthetic and emotional aspect of the Schindler X8, something that has not always been given priority in elevator design. The Schindler X8 is not just a functional piece of equipment. It has been created to feel like it belongs in your home.” Seamless design The Schindler X8’s interior design was created to express the unseen innovation behind the platform through a completely new design language. The Schindler X8 represents a new way of thinking about residential elevator design. Traditionally, elevators have often been defined by visible technical components, metallic frames, wall buttons and finishes that can feel clinical and out of place in a home. With the X8, Schindler set out to create a welcoming and more cohesive design style. Its signature doors blend striking simplicity with intelligent design, while the minimalist aesthetic allows the elevator to integrate into interiors with the same level of consideration as other high-end design items in the home. “The main mission of the interior design was to communicate the revolution happening in the platform, that passengers cannot see,” said Germana Lunghi, Product Owner, Interior Design, Schindler. “We wanted to break the standard archetype of the elevator as a stainless-steel cage that moves up and down, and instead treat it as part of the architecture, a real room inside the building.” A design for every home The aesthetic focus continues inside the Schindler X8, with six distinct interior packages. Each design has been inspired by nature and created to bring a different atmosphere to the space. The collection includes Luna, a timeless and refined look; Mineral, an open and natural feel; Savanna, a bright and earthy space; Terra, a sleek and fascinating aesthetic; Forest, a warm and rich ambiance; and Volcano, an intense and modern finish. Each interior uses different materials, color palettes, tactile finishes and lighting treatments that allow the elevator to harmonize with various residential environments. All six designs are available with full-mirror, half-mirror or no-mirror configurations, giving homeowners and designers a simple but elegant design experience. “The Schindler X8 was developed to blend into residential environments with the same design quality as the rest of the home,” said Germana. “If you are moving from your bedroom or living room into the elevator, the experience should feel seamless. We took inspiration from other objects found in contemporary homes to turn a functional product into a design item.” Form and function Behind the Schindler X8’s award-winning aesthetic is an innovative elevator concept that gives architects, designers and homeowners far greater freedom. Unlike traditional elevator systems, the Schindler X8 does not require a concrete shaft, pit or headroom. Instead, it needs only a single wall cut-out and operates via a standard single-phase power outlet. This flexibility allows the Schindler X8 to be integrated into almost any space in both new homes and existing residential buildings. “For decades, elevators have shaped the way buildings are designed, but with the Schindler X8 we set out to change this,” said Amanda. “The technical innovation enables the design freedom, which means the elevator can be installed in a way that is much more sympathetic to the architecture and interior design of the home.” Outstanding design quality The Red Dot Award is presented for high design quality, with the international jury recognizing the Schindler X8 in a strong field of participants, from 61 countries, for its outstanding design and quality. There were more than 10,000 entries in the iF DESIGN AWARD 2026, from 4,837 participants across 68 countries, judged by 129 international jurors. The Schindler X8 received the award in the Product Design, Building Technology category. It was assessed against criteria including idea, form, function, differentiation and sustainability. The double award success recognizes the Schindler X8 as a breakthrough in residential elevator design that combines elegant aesthetics, architectural freedom and Schindler’s high standards of quality and reliability. “The response to the Schindler X8 has been overwhelmingly positive,” concluded Amanda. “People immediately notice the doors, the interiors and the way the elevator becomes part of the home. These awards are a fantastic recognition of the work that has gone into creating an elevator that is completely different from anything else on the market.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The government’s ambitions to build 1.5 million homes, upgrade home energy standards, and deliver a £725 billion long-term infrastructure pipeline will depend on a significant expansion to the construction workforce – and stronger employer involvement in training the next generation of workers, according to a new report from the National Audit Office (NAO) published today. The watchdog examined the government’s progress in delivering its £625 million construction skills package, announced in March 2025, which aims to support up to 60,000 more construction workers by 2029.1 The package combines tried and tested initiatives, alongside newer initiatives, including Skills Bootcamps, and new foundation apprenticeships, and construction technical excellence colleges. However, the package is not designed to meet all future workforce needs, with government estimates showing that between 201,000 and 755,000 extra workers could be required by 2030, before accounting for those who leave the sector for other jobs. This comes as statistics show the construction sector had the highest rate of hard-to-fill vacancies due to skills shortages — 45% compared with a 27% national average.2 Employer engagement is a critical delivery risk for the construction package. The government hopes that 42% of the additional construction workers will follow from further education students completing industry placements. Businesses make recruitment and training decisions depending on the expected pipeline of work, costs and market competition – but tough economic conditions are affecting employers’ confidence to invest and take new employees and apprentices on board. In 2024, employer investment in training per construction trainee was at its lowest level in 10 years. Foundation apprenticeships are intended to help young people move into entry-level construction jobs, but by April 2026 only 74 young people had started, against DWP’s assumption of 1,000 in 2025-26. The NAO concludes that the government’s construction skills package is a positive step, and that it now has in place a clearer framework to track delivery. However, delivery is not guaranteed. To achieve its aspiration of up to 60,000 workers — and support its housing and infrastructure commitments — government will need better data, to prioritise resources, and to get employers’ buy in. Without this, skills shortages could drive up costs and put major delivery commitments at risk. The NAO now recommends: Gareth Davies, head of the NAO, said:“The government is taking action to address shortage of skilled construction workers as part of its ambitious commitments for housing, infrastructure and energy efficiency. Success will depend on employers having the confidence and capability to offer placements, apprenticeships and jobs.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
New research from Landlord Studio reveals the toll MTD is taking on the UK’s landlords, as they increasingly look to rely on letting agents to make sense of the shift New research from Landlord Studio, the property accounting and compliance software company, finds that almost a quarter (22%) of UK landlords have considered leaving the rental market altogether, as Making Tax Digital (MTD) piles on administrative and compliance pressure. Despite this, 74% of landlords agree that MTD is actually making it easier to manage their tax, and over half (55%) still expect MTD to increase their profitability overall. The findings also point to a growing role for letting agents, with 90% of landlords agreeing that agents are well-equipped to help them manage MTD requirements. MTD for Income Tax has been mandatory since April 2026 for landlords earning over £50,000 in qualifying income, requiring quarterly digital updates to HMRC alongside an end-of-year finalisation process. The threshold drops further to £30,000 from April 2027, bringing a second wave of landlords into scope within the next year. The confidence paradox While confidence in MTD is high, many landlords are still feeling the strain of rising admin demands. Despite 94% of landlords and letting agents combined saying they are confident in their understanding of MTD requirements, and 95% confident in their ability to implement it, 59% of landlords specifically remain concerned about making mistakes or facing penalties. Letting agents appear well placed to help close this gap, with 51% describing themselves as very confident in their understanding of MTD, compared with just 36% of landlords. This suggests agents can help close the gap between broad landlord confidence and the practical realities of staying compliant. Logan Ransley, Co-Founder of Landlord Studio, said: “Landlords are clearly feeling the pressure of MTD, both in terms of time and cost, and for some that pressure is serious enough to make them question whether continuing to let property is worth it. What’s clear is that the support landlords need is often already there. Letting agents have the knowledge and the relationships to make a real difference, but our research shows many landlords simply don’t know how much help is on offer. Closing this gap is going to be essential as MTD rolls out more broadly.” The race to stay compliant is borne out in the numbers. Landlords now spend an average of 13 hours a month – more than a day and a half of work – managing tax and financial admin. Compared with 12 months ago, 53% both say the time associated with this has increased and the cost has risen. On average, landlords estimate that the time they spend on tax and financial admin is worth more than £3,000 a year, almost £64 a week. The admin burden isn’t only being felt by landlords. 89% say rising admin and compliance costs make them likely to raise rents, showing the knock-on effect inefficient back-office processes can have across the rental market. Falling behind on technology The research suggests that while landlords broadly recognise the benefits of digital tax reporting, many are still grappling with having the right tools to manage compliance efficiently. Just 34% use software or digital platforms for tax reporting and record-keeping, while 39% continue to rely on spreadsheets or manual methods. Spreadsheets are technically permitted under MTD, but only with separate bridging software and strict digital links in place, an extra layer of complexity many landlords may not have accounted for. A growing opportunity for agents Landlords identified the biggest compliance challenges as keeping accurate records (38%), the risk of errors and penalties (36%), and the time required for admin (34%). They also recognise that letting agents are well-equipped to help them manage new tax requirements (90%), but with 61% of letting agents themselves admitting that awareness of the support they can offer remains low, there is a clear opportunity to close that gap. Letting agents have the ability to provide landlords with practical support, helping them improve processes, stay organised and reduce the risk of mistakes. There is also strong future demand for digital solutions, with 98% of landlords saying they are likely to invest in tax and compliance software over the next two years, with 44% looking for greater financial visibility. For letting agents, this creates an opportunity to combine their expertise with digital tools, helping landlords stay compliant, reduce admin and manage rental income more efficiently as MTD implementation accelerates. Logan Ransley adds: “Letting agents already hold the rent, expense and ownership data their landlords need to comply with MTD – what’s been missing is a way to get that data to HMRC without anyone re-entering it by hand. That’s exactly why we built Nexus by Landlord Studio. It connects the records an agency already keeps to a secure portal where landlords, or their accountants, can review and submit each quarter. Nexus is available exclusively through participating letting agents, so an agent’s relationship with their landlords becomes a genuine value-add rather than another compliance headache.” To find out more about Nexus by Landlord Studio, visit here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As the Federation of Master Builders marks its 85th anniversary, members from across the UK reflect on the businesses, communities and industry the FMB has helped shape over the past eight decades. From Glasgow to Cheltenham, builders reflect on eight decades of craft, community and change as the Federation of Master Builders reaches a landmark 85 year anniversary The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is marking its 85th anniversary this year and members from every corner of the UK are reflecting on what those eight decades have meant for their businesses, their trade and the people they build for. Founded in 1941, the FMB was established on a simple but enduring principle: that skilled, reputable builders deserved a voice, and that consumers deserved protection. Today, it remains the UK’s largest trade association for small and medium-sized building companies, championing high standards in an industry that continues to face significant challenges — from a deepening skills shortage and planning delays to the ongoing scourge of rogue traders who cost British homeowners an estimated £14.3 billion over the last five years alone. As the FMB looks ahead to its National Conference at Oxford’s historic Exeter College on 9–10 July, members who have been part of the organisation for decades — and those who joined more recently — are united by a shared commitment to the values that have defined the FMB since its founding. Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders: “Eighty-five years ago, the Federation of Master Builders was founded on a simple but powerful idea: that skilled, trustworthy builders deserved a voice, and that the public deserved protection from those who would undermine the trade. That mission is as urgent today as it ever was. As we mark this anniversary, I’m proud of everything our members have built, not just the homes, extensions and renovations that have transformed people’s lives, but the standards, the reputation and the community that the FMB represents. Here’s to the next 85 years.” To mark the milestone, the FMB spoke to members past and present across the UK, asking them to reflect on their time with the Federation, the changes they’ve seen in the industry, and what membership means to their business today — and looking ahead to the challenges still to come. NORTH — I J Curry & Son Ltd, Penrith, Cumbria | In business since 1990 | FMB members for nearly 30 years For the Curry family, joining the FMB was about standing for something in an industry where standards are not always guaranteed. “Building is a people business,” says Nick Curry, “and we wanted our customers to know that we were committed to doing things properly and working to the highest standards.” The firm has been building in Cumbria since 1990 — 35 years of barn conversions, new builds and renovations across the region. Over nearly three decades as FMB members, the industry has changed beyond recognition: customer expectations are higher, sustainability and energy efficiency have moved centre stage, and technology has transformed everything from how plans are drawn up to how sites are managed. But Nick is clear that some things remain constant: “Despite all the changes, the importance of craftsmanship and trust has remained.” For a family firm now spanning three generations — Nick, his father Ian who first joined the FMB nearly 30 years ago, and Joan — multi-generational working is something they’ve had to navigate in practice. “The key is communication and recognising that nobody has all the answers,” says Nick. “Family businesses thrive when there’s mutual respect, clear roles and a shared vision for where the business is going.” The FMB has been part of that journey every step of the way. The Currys’ proudest achievement to date is being recognised with two national Master Builder Awards last year, alongside a string of regional wins. “It’s reassuring to know that we’re part of something bigger than our own business.” MIDLANDS — Graline Construction Ltd, Solihull, Birmingham | In business since 1974 | FMB members since 1995 Graline Construction has been one of South Birmingham’s leading family-run builders since 1974 — over 50 years of craftsmanship in kitchens, extensions and renovations across the region. But for Director of Operations Kathryn Poppitt, the FMB story is personal as much as professional. She now sits as the FMB Central Area Board President and serves as a Vice President of the regional FMB board. Her father joined the Federation in 1995 — when the company had already been trading for over two decades — because he wanted the credibility of a professional body behind the Graline name. Thirty years later, that commitment has passed to the next generation. “I feel like I’ve grown up with the FMB. My dad joined in 1995 because he wanted credibility behind our company and wanted to raise standards in an industry he’d worked in since he was 15. Being part of the Federation has been part of my childhood and is now a huge part of my business journey too.” LONDON — JA Lofts, South East London | FMB members for 10 years Jordan Ali started JA Lofts a decade ago with a clear intention: to stand out in a crowded market by holding himself to the highest standards. The South East London-based loft conversion specialist joined the FMB on day one — and has recently taken that commitment further by joining the London Board. “Happy 85th FMB! When I started my company I wanted to stand out from the crowd and hold myself to high standards so signed up with the FMB right away. I recently was elected to the London Board so am looking forward to making a contribution to the direction the FMB takes — particularly on bringing the next generation into the industry. Here’s to the FMB raising standards for many years to come!” SOUTH WEST — Newman Construction and Sons Ltd, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire | FMB members since 2019 Newman Construction and Sons Ltd may be a
The Government Property Agency’s (GPA) Birmingham hub has become the first public sector building in the world to retain a coveted quality mark. Its flagship site at 23 Stephenson Street has secured Leesman+ accreditation – a prestigious global workplace experience rating – for the second time, demonstrating a sustained commitment to delivering an exceptional workplace experience for civil servants. Carly Ersser, Director of Workplace Services at the GPA, said: “We are incredibly proud that 23 Stephenson Street has secured Leesman+ accreditation for a second time. Surveying the people who work from our buildings gives us invaluable insights that directly inform how we design our services and continuously improve the workplace experience. “While this historic milestone is a fantastic achievement, we recognise there is always more work to be done. This rigorous feedback helps us target our resources to where they are needed most, ensuring we make a meaningful difference to civil servants working productively and happily from the office.” Leesman+ is a globally recognised certification awarded to top-tier workplaces that achieve outstanding employee satisfaction scores. To earn the accreditation, buildings must undergo rigorous, independent surveying and analysis of their features, services, and infrastructure. The GPA government hub at Stephenson Street first achieved this benchmark in 2023. The Birmingham office hosts 1,700 civil servants from more than 20 government departments and agencies. It was transformed from disused retail and commercial space into a modern, digitally-connected, and inclusive workplace in 2022, and now features a variety of spaces to support productivity, collaboration and wellbeing aligned to the Government Workplace Design Guide. Dr Peggie Rothe, Chief Insights and Research Officer at Leesman, said: “Leesman+ certifications have been awarded to just three per cent of the more than 10,400 buildings Leesman has assessed worldwide, and only 10 per cent of those have been re-certified. The GPA’s Stephenson Street Hub is the only public sector building globally to achieve Leesman+ re-certification, testament to the agency’s programmatic, data-led approach to delivering and sustaining exceptional workplace experience.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Cheltenham Borough Council and its development partner HBD have commenced construction on the first phase of Golden Valley – a £1 billion cyber and technology campus in Cheltenham which will be central to driving growth and innovation in UK National Security and Defence. The news marks a significant milestone in the delivery of this purpose-built cyber and tech innovation space, where government, academia and industry will co-create the future of national security and defence as part of a nationally-significant, diverse ecosystem. Bowmer + Kirkland has been appointed as main contractor for the first phase, which will include the delivery of IDEA, Golden Valley’s central innovation hub, which houses the national security innovation centre. Scheduled to open early 2028, IDEA will be a true national asset and will drive diversification of the ecosystem by creating a platform for government, academia and growing companies to co-create; its importance in growing UK Cyber and Defence Innovation is underlined in the Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy. IDEA has also been designed to be 50% more energy efficient than typical workspaces, reducing annual carbon emissions by 200 tonnes, and it will sit within a landscape-led development where 60% of Golden Valley is dedicated to open green space. The building is already 68% reserved thanks to strong early interest in the space and will further strengthen the region’s established reputation as a leading destination for cyber security and advanced technologies. IDEA will also have an integrated Skills Hub, with training programs and pathway guidance to help grow local talent and address the skills gap. Phase one of the development will additionally deliver a second building called ROUTER. This transport hub is designed to support sustainable and smart movement throughout Golden Valley and beyond. The hub will provide advanced cycling facilities, e-bike charging, showers and lockers, alongside real-time transport information, as well as over 400 car parking spaces, addressing long-term infrastructure needs, as well as convenience retail and leisure amenities for occupiers, residents and the wider community. Hamer Boot, Managing Director at HBD, said: “Reaching the point where Golden Valley is now a live construction site is a major achievement and reflects the strength of collaboration between the public and private sector partners involved in bringing this project forward. Phase one is scheduled for completion in early 2028 and will drive significant investment, create employment opportunities and support the development of future ground-breaking technologies.” Councillor Rowena Hay, leader at Cheltenham Borough Council, added: “The delivery of phase one demonstrates our commitment to creating an internationally-recognised development that will deliver lasting benefits for the local, regional and national economy.” “This milestone also marks the first phase of the wider Garden Community vision at Golden Valley, which will establish a sustainable, mixed-use neighbourhood, including new homes, employment space, a new primary school and a range of amenities for the community.” Dr Marsha Quallo-Wright, GCHQ Director of Technology Futures, said: “As the Golden Valley development reaches an important milestone, we’re looking forward to working alongside academia and industry to strengthen our ability to address emerging security challenges, foster innovation, and support the region’s growth. Through these partnerships we will draw on new expertise, share knowledge, and help develop the skills needed for the future. These collaborations will play an important role in supporting our mission to keep the UK safe.” Stuart Fanshaw, Construction Director at Bowmer + Kirkland, said: “Golden Valley is a major strategic development, and this first phase will set the standard for the wider campus.” “IDEA and ROUTER will provide the foundations for the next stage of Golden Valley, while creating opportunities beyond the site itself, from supply chain involvement to skills development. We are pleased to be playing a key role in bringing this first phase forward.” Golden Valley has been designed to foster collaboration between government, SMEs, start-ups, major technology firms, universities and investors, creating an ecosystem that supports innovation, attracts talent and drives economic growth. GCHQ will serve as an anchor for the South West region, driving demand, talent, economic growth and national security focus while connecting to the wider national security cluster. Find out more by visiting: https://www.goldenvalleyuk.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned developer of industrial real estate, has secured planning consent for T Park Southampton, a new Grade A industrial and logistics development at Salisbury Road, Totton. The scheme will deliver five detached speculative units, providing around 223,000 sq ft of high-quality space in one of the South Coast’s most supply-constrained industrial markets. Units will range from approximately 25,000 sq ft to 100,000 sq ft, offering flexible options for manufacturers, distributors, last-mile operators, port-related businesses, and defence supply chain occupiers. T Park Southampton is immediately adjacent to Junction 2 of the M27, providing direct access to the wider South Coast, the M3, London, and the national motorway network. The site is also around 5.5 miles from Southampton Port, the UK’s second-largest container port and one of the country’s most important deep-sea trade gateways. The development is targeting BREEAM ‘Excellent’, with EPC A+ offices and EPC A warehouse space. Sustainability features will include roof-mounted solar PV, 15% rooflights, rainwater harvesting, energy sub-metering, EV charging points, and enhanced building fabric to support lower occupational costs. David McDougan, Senior Development Director: South Coast, said: “Securing planning consent for T Park Southampton is an important milestone as we continue to expand our speculative development pipeline in key supply-constrained markets. Southampton is a strategic location with excellent motorway access, a major port, and a strong regional labour pool, and this scheme will provide modern, sustainable space for occupiers looking to serve regional, national, and global markets.” Panattoni T Park Southampton forms part of Panattoni’s continued investment into the UK industrial and logistics market, delivering high-quality, sustainable buildings in locations where occupier demand remains strong and new supply is limited. Vail Williams, Lambert Smith Hampton, and JLL are retained as letting agents for the scheme. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A joint venture between Countryside (part of Vistry) and L&Q has welcomed Chelmsford City Council’s Planning Committee resolution on 30th June 2026 to grant outline planning permission for Zone 2 of the Chelmsford Garden Community. This decision represents a significant milestone in delivering one of the UK’s most ambitious new communities and marks a major step forward in realising the long-term vision for North East Chelmsford. Zone 2 will bring forward a residential-led, mixed-use neighbourhood of up to 3,500 new homes, alongside a wide range of essential infrastructure including schools, healthcare facilities,employment space, local centres and extensive green infrastructure. Building on the success of the partners’ existing development at Beaulieu, Zone 2 will play a central role in delivering the wider Garden Community, which will provide around 10,000 homes overall, designed in line with Garden City principles to create sustainable, well-connected neighbourhoods. The development will deliver: Together, these elements will create a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable place, where homes, jobs and services are delivered hand in hand with green space and community infrastructure. The application has been shaped through close collaboration with Chelmsford City Council, Essex County Council, Homes England and wider partners, building on years of masterplanning and community engagement. As well as making a substantial contribution to local housing needs, the scheme is designed to ensure infrastructure and community facilities are delivered alongside new homes. A strong focus on community stewardship will also ensure that public spaces and assets are carefully managed for the long term, giving residents a meaningful role in shaping their neighbourhood. Adam Simpson, Development and Project Management Director at L&Q said: “We welcome the Planning Committee’s decision to approve this important phase of the Chelmsford Garden Community. “This marks a significant step forward for our partnership with Countryside. Projects like this are vital, delivering new and affordable homes alongside schools, amenities, green spaces and infrastructure. This isn’t just about tackling the housing shortage but creating the conditions for communities to thrive. We look forward to continuing to work with our partners to bring this new neighbourhood forward.” James Harkin, Head of Strategic Land at Vistry, commented: “Reaching this stage for Zone 2 reflects years of careful planning to create a place that genuinely works for the long term. What sets this scheme apart is its landscape-led approach and the way it brings together homes, jobs and everyday amenities within walkable neighbourhoods. “The vision for three distinct villages, connected by green corridors and active travel routes, will help foster a strong sense of identity and community from the outset. As we move forward, our focus will remain on delivering high-quality places that prioritise sustainability, support local economies and offer residents a better way of living”. The resolution is subject to the completion of planning obligations and legal agreements. Subject to this, development will be delivered in phases over the coming years. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals