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Kenneth Booth
Fleete opens UK’s largest dedicated commercial vehicle electric charging hub at Port of Tilbury

Fleete opens UK’s largest dedicated commercial vehicle electric charging hub at Port of Tilbury

Kenneth Booth March 3, 2026

Marking a major milestone in the electrification of the country’s freight and logistics sector, Fleete has officially opened the UK’s largest dedicated commercial vehicle electric charging hub at the Port of Tilbury.   The 5MW facility features 16 ultra-rapid chargers enabling up to 16 electric HGVs to charge simultaneously. This site is the first of a network of shared commercial

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Farrans lands £30m terminal expansion at Bristol Airport

Farrans lands £30m terminal expansion at Bristol Airport

Kenneth Booth March 2, 2026

Farrans has secured a £30m contract to deliver a major terminal extension at Bristol Airport, as part of the airport’s wider £400m improvement programme. Appointed as main contractor, Farrans – a subsidiary of John Sisk & Son since November 2025 – has begun work on a two-storey extension that will

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Blenheim Palace launches design challenge to inspire the next generation of architects as part of national Vanbrugh300 campaign

Blenheim Palace launches design challenge to inspire the next generation of architects as part of national Vanbrugh300 campaign

Kenneth Booth March 2, 2026

Blenheim Palace is inspiring the next generation of architects with a nationwide design competition, where winners will receive an incredible prize, including a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sign a roof slate and have their name in situ on Britain’s Greatest Palace for centuries to come. The Baroque masterpiece and UNESCO World

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Training the trainers: new programme launch aims to strengthen green construction skills pipeline

Training the trainers: new programme launch aims to strengthen green construction skills pipeline

Kenneth Booth March 2, 2026

FE tutors at Barnsley College’s Clean Energy Training Centre for retrofit training with Efficiency North and BE-ST. A NATIONAL training programme designed to upskill construction educators in retrofit and sustainable building and address the sector’s skill shortage has been brought to England for the first time by leading social housing consortium Efficiency North.  Built Environment – Smarter Transformation (BE-ST), host of both

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Architectural trends bridging the gap between interior and exterior spaces

Architectural trends bridging the gap between interior and exterior spaces

Kenneth Booth March 2, 2026

The traditional boundaries between the home and the garden are increasingly blurred in modern architecture. As homeowners seek to maximise their living areas without the logistical nightmare of a full-scale brick-and-mortar extension, architects and developers are turning toward versatile, high-end structural solutions. The goal is no longer just to provide

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Latest Issue
Issue 338 : Mar 2026

Kenneth Booth

Fleete opens UK’s largest dedicated commercial vehicle electric charging hub at Port of Tilbury

Fleete opens UK’s largest dedicated commercial vehicle electric charging hub at Port of Tilbury

Kenneth Booth March 3, 2026

Marking a major milestone in the electrification of the country’s freight and logistics sector, Fleete has officially opened the UK’s largest dedicated commercial vehicle electric charging hub at the Port of Tilbury.   The 5MW facility features 16 ultra-rapid chargers enabling up to 16 electric HGVs to charge simultaneously. This site is the first of a network of shared commercial vehicle charging hubs, designed to accelerate fleet electrification across the UK by providing high-powered charging at strategic logistics locations without the need for costly, time-consuming depot upgrades.  Delivering high-capacity charging at scale  Fleete’s new hub, delivered in partnership with the Port of Tilbury and Thames Freeport, is supported by £1 million from the UK government’s Thames Freeport Seed Capital Programme, with further funding provided by the Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) Programme, funded by the Department for Transport in partnership with Innovate UK.  The investment marks an important step in the Port of Tilbury’s green energy transition, supporting cleaner air for local communities, enabling businesses to capitalise on new opportunities in sustainable transport and contributing to economic growth and job creation.  Strategically located at one of the UK’s busiest multimodal freight hubs, Fleete’s facility serves the growing number of zero emission HGVs operating in and through the Port of Tilbury and along the A13 corridor into London. It also supports national infrastructure programmes including the Lower Thames Crossing, where major contractors are switching to electric vehicles to reduce emissions on one of the country’s largest infrastructure construction projects.   The official opening was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by representatives from Fleete, project partners and fleet customers, with the hub formally opened by Madam Mayor Sue Shinnick, Mayor of Thurrock.  “Today is an important moment for Thurrock and for the wider move towards cleaner freight. The opening of Fleete’s electric HGV charging hub here at the Port of Tilbury, the largest dedicated hub of its kind in the UK, highlights what can be achieved through strong partnership between industry, government and Thames Freeport. This investment supports cleaner transport, improves air quality for our communities, and reinforces Thurrock’s role in adopting practical, forward looking low carbon solutions,” said Madam Mayor Sue Shinnick, Mayor of Thurrock.  State-of-the-art eHGV charging   Fleete’s shared-user model provides fleet operators with access to reliable, high-quality charging without the need for dedicated facilities, addressing common barriers to electrification including grid capacity, land constraints and upfront infrastructure cost.  The new 5 megawatt (MW) site includes:  The hub was delivered with design and construction support from industry partners including Envevo, bringing high-voltage charging infrastructure into operation within a live port environment. The site has been designed to accommodate additional fleet operators as demand grows.  Speaking at the opening event, Chris Morrison, CEO at Fleete, said: “Today marks a major milestone for Fleete and for the wider logistics sector. From announcing the project last year, to now opening the site, our focus has been on proving that shared, high-capacity charging infrastructure can remove one of the biggest barriers to fleet electrification.  “The Port of Tilbury hub shows what’s possible when industry and government work together to deliver infrastructure at scale. By supporting customers and collaborating with partners across the supply chain, we’re helping accelerate the transition to zero-emission commercial transport where it’s needed most.”  Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister Keir Mather said: ”This is a significant milestone in our drive to decarbonise road freight, helped by £1million Government investment at the Port of Tilbury site to install EV chargers for HGVs.  “Road freight is the backbone of our economy, keeping goods moving and businesses growing. By supporting the sector to go electric, we’re cutting emissions and backing the industry to thrive long into the future.”  Strengthening partnerships at Port of Tilbury  The new hub forms part of a wider effort to support cleaner freight movement and future-proof one of the UK’s most important logistics gateways.  David Webster, Regional Director – Tilbury and Thames Freeport board member, said: “The opening of Fleete’s EV charging hub is a significant step forward for the Port of Tilbury as we work to support the decarbonisation of freight and logistics at one of the UK’s busiest ports.  “With thousands of HGV movements through the port every day, access to high-capacity, reliable charging infrastructure is critical. This shared facility will play an important role in helping our customers reduce emissions while maintaining efficient operations.”  Stuart Rimmer, CEO (Interim), Thames Freeport  added: “This is exactly the kind of project Thames Freeport was established to support. By using targeted seed capital funding to unlock private investment, we are helping to deliver infrastructure that strengthens the Port of Tilbury and supports its long-term competitiveness.  For Thurrock and the wider Thames Freeport region, this means cleaner freight operations, modern infrastructure and continued confidence that the area is well placed to attract further investment in sustainable logistics.”  Logistics UK Chief Executive Ben Fletcher said: “Public charging infrastructure on this scale, and in such a key strategic location, is precisely what is needed to encourage more operators to use electric vehicles.  “The charging hub is vast, and with 16 ultra rapid chargers it will help operators make the switch to electric fleets – especially smaller operators who can struggle to install chargers at their depots.”  1) eFREIGHT 2030 is part of the UK Government’s Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstration programme – funded by the Department for Transport and delivered in partnership with Innovate UK.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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CBRE appointed to sell investment on “the best UK office building outside of London”

CBRE appointed to sell investment on “the best UK office building outside of London”

Kenneth Booth March 3, 2026

The Birmingham capital markets team at leading commercial real estate services firm, CBRE, has been appointed to sell the investment for 3 Chamberlain Square, a landmark office building that has been labelled “the best outside of London.” Managed by Federated Hermes, the 191,000 sq ft building is considered best-in-class with purposeful design features that exemplify a modern workplace. Located in Birmingham’s central business district, 3 Chamberlain Square is part of the £1.2 billion Paradise development, expanding the area’s business, residential and leisure offering. Completed in May 2025, the building’s innovative design has achieved a host of certifications. This list includes EPC A, BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ and NABERS UK 5*, acknowledging its exemplary sustainability credentials, as well as ActiveScore ‘Platinum’ and WiredScore ‘Platinum’, recognising how its design supports active travel and its advanced use of technology respectively.   All nine office floors were placed under offer ahead of practical completion, with the final letting achieving a rent of £52 per square foot, the highest of the UK’s big six cities. Tenants include global law firm, Eversheds, international accounting and advisory firm, Forvis Mazars and ‘big four’ accounting firm, EY. The building has also become home to CBRE’s Birmingham office. The asset boasts a Weighted Average Unexpired Lease Term (WAULT) of over 10 years to breaks and 14 years to expiries. Nick Woodward, Head of CBRE’s Birmingham Investment team, said: “3 Chamberlain Square is a unique investment opportunity. The building itself achieves excellence in every category, from sustainability credentials to design, making it arguably the best office building outside of London. This is further demonstrated through the extremely high calibre of occupiers that the building has attracted, offering a stable and already reversionary rental income. “Birmingham as a city is brimming with opportunity, which is only going to get more attractive as HS2 continues to progress and the level of inward investment increases. 3 Chamberlain Square entering the market is the perfect opportunity for those looking to benefit early from Birmingham’s inevitable growth.” CBRE is quoting a price of £123.2m, which reflects a Net Initial Yield of 6.5% for the asset. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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AI technology goes under the spotlight at UK Construction Week London

AI technology goes under the spotlight at UK Construction Week London

Kenneth Booth March 3, 2026

From design and planning to cost estimating and site safety monitoring, the increasing role of AI (artificial intelligence) in construction will be a key focus at UK Construction Week London (May 12-14), the UK’s Built Environment super event. New for 2026 and one of six stages delivering over 150 hours of CPD accredited seminars, The Contech and AI Hub will bring together the brightest minds and the most forward-thinking technologies transforming the built environment. Confirmed talks include: Cutting-edge AI applications across the full project lifecycle  How artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an integrated partner throughout the entire project lifecycle. Rather than focusing solely on discrete technological interventions, this session considers AI as an ecosystem that connects strategy, design, delivery and long-term stewardship. Speaker: Andrew Johnson (Okana) Beyond the hype: building AI-ready teams for the digital built environment  An opportunity to gain insight into the organisational, cultural and technical transformations required to develop teams who are capable of leveraging AI effectively. The session will address challenges such as skill gaps, change management and aligning AI initiatives with broader business objectives, as well as highlighting successful case studies from leading projects. Speakers: David Philp FICE, FCIOB, FRICS, FCInstCES (Bentley Systems) and Prof Sean Smith BSc PhD FHEA FIOA FRSA HonFRIAS HonFCIAT (University of Edinburgh) From concept to construction: the impact of AI in architecture  This session brings together four distinguished architects who are actively engaging with artificial intelligence (AI) to advance contemporary design practice. The panel will examine how emerging AI methodologies are reshaping early concept generation, enabling rapid exploration of form, materiality and spatial performance. Speakers: TBC Real world application of AI in construction and what people don’t tell you! How artificial intelligence (AI) is moving from buzzword to practical tool in the construction industry. Rather than replacing human expertise, this session explores how AI is augmenting it, helping teams analyse complex data, anticipate risks and automate repetitive tasks.  Speaker:  Lilian Ho AI or Die: Rewriting the Rules of Construction Sales and Marketing  This no-nonsense panel cuts through the hype to show how AI is already reshaping construction sales and marketing—and where it clearly isn’t. Panellists will share practical, real-world uses that drive leads, improve targeting, and save time, while calling out common myths and missteps.  Speaker: Leigh Simpson (Insynth Marketing) Sam Patel, Divisional Director, UK Construction Week London, commented: “A key element of UKCW London is informing and updating visitors on the rapidly changing technology which is playing an increasing role in the industry – of which AI is a huge part. Anyone working in construction – from architects to site managers – needs to know how this transformative technology can help them in every aspect of their work, so these talks and panel events are a must for everyone.” In addition to the focus on AI, UK Construction Week London will explore a wide spectrum of the most pressing and important topics which affect the industry today, with a packed programme of CPD-accredited panels and seminars covering everything from innovation in construction methods to product testing and assurance; housing insight to workforce capacity; workplace culture to data-driven project management. Bringing together construction leaders, innovators and decision makers from across the industry, UKCW London will run alongside both Futurebuild and The Stone & Surfaces Show, attracting over 25,000 industry professionals. Sponsored by Sage, Wyre, HotelPlanner, Zurich Resilience Solutions and Build Warranty, UKCW London will feature over 300 leading brands; over 25 trade bodies and associations, including the Federation of Master Builders, CIBSE, and the National Association Of Air Duct-Cleaners UK. Visitors can register for free by visiting: https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-london-2026/cab-campaign. Following the London show in May 2026, UKCW Birmingham will return to the NEC from 29 September to 1 October 2026. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Panattoni secures full occupancy at M1 logistics park as pharma demand rises

Panattoni secures full occupancy at M1 logistics park as pharma demand rises

Kenneth Booth March 2, 2026

Panattoni has achieved full occupation at Panattoni Park J28 Central M1, completing the leasing of the scheme and reinforcing the strength of demand along one of the UK’s key logistics corridors. Located with direct access to Junction 28 of the M1, the park has established itself as a prime Midlands distribution hub, offering strong connectivity to national networks. The development has attracted a diverse mix of occupiers, reflecting broad-based demand for well-located Grade A logistics space. The final unit has been let to Alloga, a specialist pharmaceutical logistics provider and part of Cencora. The deal marks the second building Panattoni has delivered to Alloga, further strengthening the park’s occupier profile. Existing tenants include Super Smart Services and a Chinese third-party logistics operator, underlining the appeal of the location to both international and specialist operators. The latest letting highlights the growing presence of pharmaceutical businesses within the logistics market. Increasing regulatory requirements, more complex temperature-controlled supply chains and the need for GDP- and GMP-compliant facilities are driving demand for highly specified warehouse space across the UK and Europe. Panattoni has responded to this shift through a series of specialist developments. In Germany, the company recently delivered a GDP- and GMP-compliant facility incorporating climate-controlled zones between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius, WGK III areas and advanced digital monitoring systems. In Poland, Grupa Olmed has taken 9,500 sq m at City Logistics Łódź VI, with the space configured to support expanding e-commerce operations through automation and mezzanine floors. Andy Preston, senior development director at Panattoni, said reaching full occupation at J28 reflects ongoing demand for sustainable, strategically located accommodation across the Midlands and nationally. He added that the M1 corridor continues to perform strongly, attracting occupiers ranging from e-commerce operators to pharmaceutical specialists. Panattoni remains active across the corridor, recently acquiring a site in Worksop for a 462,000 sq ft speculative development and a site at Northampton West with capacity for up to 1 million sq ft. Leasing agents at J28 were FHP, CBRE and APEX, with Savills advising Alloga. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Atis picks St James’s Park for 16th London opening at The Broadway

Atis picks St James’s Park for 16th London opening at The Broadway

Kenneth Booth March 2, 2026

Atis is expanding its London estate again, with the fast-growing restaurant brand set to open its 16th site at The Broadway, the 1 million sq ft mixed-use development in St James’s Park. Founded in 2019 by Eleanor Warder and Phil Honer, Atis will take a 3,600 sq ft unit at the scheme, adding to a portfolio that already includes locations in Covent Garden, Notting Hill, Borough Yards, Mayfair and King’s Cross. The latest signing underlines the brand’s continued push into prime central London destinations with strong commuter and office footfall. Atis will join an emerging food and lifestyle line-up at The Broadway, alongside operators including Farmer J, Açaí Berry, Nostos Coffee and Nobleman Barber. The development is seeking to establish a high-quality, wellness-led retail mix that supports the needs of residents, office occupiers and visitors throughout the day. Designed by Squire & Partners, The Broadway comprises 258 homes arranged across six towers, 116,000 sq ft of office accommodation and 24,000 sq ft of street-level retail and dining space. A number of units remain available and are currently being marketed by CBRE. The deal follows the recent appointment of property developer Valouran as asset manager for The Broadway, signalling a renewed focus on curating the scheme’s commercial and retail offering. Alex Michelin, co-founder and chief executive of Valouran, said Atis is one of the capital’s fastest-growing food brands and an ideal fit for the development. He noted that the restaurant will occupy a prominent corner position with frontages onto both Broadway and Victoria Street, helping reinforce the destination’s retail appeal. Phil Honer, co-founder of Atis, said The Broadway’s location aligns strongly with the brand’s approach to simple, real food served in carefully designed spaces. He added that the team is looking forward to becoming part of the area’s continued evolution and introducing Atis to a new audience in St James’s Park. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Farrans lands £30m terminal expansion at Bristol Airport

Farrans lands £30m terminal expansion at Bristol Airport

Kenneth Booth March 2, 2026

Farrans has secured a £30m contract to deliver a major terminal extension at Bristol Airport, as part of the airport’s wider £400m improvement programme. Appointed as main contractor, Farrans – a subsidiary of John Sisk & Son since November 2025 – has begun work on a two-storey extension that will infill the space between the existing terminal building and the departure gates. The scheme is designed to support projected growth to 12 million passengers per year. The expansion will significantly enhance the airport’s retail and hospitality offer, with 17 additional food and retail units set to almost double the number of shops and restaurants on site. Plans also include new island retail units and expanded seating areas within the terminal. On the arrivals side, the project will introduce a new domestic baggage reclaim area featuring an additional carousel and a 20% increase in capacity. Accessibility improvements are also planned for the immigration area, with new lifts and staircases to enhance passenger flow and inclusivity. Farrans is already familiar with the airport environment, having previously completed the £60m public transport interchange in joint venture with Griffiths in July 2025. That project, which accommodates around 250 public transport movements per day, formed part of the airport’s long-term infrastructure strategy. Bristol Airport’s infrastructure director, Andrew Goodenough, said the airport has ambitious plans to transform the customer experience in the coming years. He confirmed that overall floor space will increase by nearly 45%, with a total of 38 retail and food and beverage outlets planned, including premium brands and a speakeasy-style bar. Farrans project manager Gerard McNamee said the extension will be delivered within a live operational environment, with passenger routes remaining open throughout the works. Measures such as insulated hoardings and air-locked spaces will be used to maintain passenger flow and safety. One of the more unusual logistical elements will see the use of a Bailey Bridge to transport vehicles and equipment from landside to airside. At peak, around 150 people are expected to be employed on the project, many sourced from local suppliers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Blenheim Palace launches design challenge to inspire the next generation of architects as part of national Vanbrugh300 campaign

Blenheim Palace launches design challenge to inspire the next generation of architects as part of national Vanbrugh300 campaign

Kenneth Booth March 2, 2026

Blenheim Palace is inspiring the next generation of architects with a nationwide design competition, where winners will receive an incredible prize, including a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sign a roof slate and have their name in situ on Britain’s Greatest Palace for centuries to come. The Baroque masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site has launched the competition for the next generation to leave their own mark on history, to coincide with Blueprints of Power, its latest exhibition, which celebrates the 300th anniversary of its architect Sir John Vanbrugh (1664–1726).  The competition, announced during National Careers Week (2nd-7th March 2026), features three categories:  To enter, participants must submit their response to the brief in their category via a PDF A4 visual to blenheim@cabcampaign.co.uk by Wednesday, 18th March. Entries will be judged by an esteemed panel including Sir Charles Saumarez Smith CBE, author, curator and architectural historian, Kelly O’Driscoll, Head of Built Heritage at Blenheim Palace and Donald Insall Associates Practice Director, and Edward Lewis, currently leading the restoration project at Blenheim Palace. Winners in each category will be announced Monday, 23rd March and will receive: Heather Carter, Managing Director – Visitor Attraction, Blenheim Palace, said: “This period of vital restoration has been a truly historic moment and a chance for everyone to see Blenheim Palace from a whole new perspective. Alongside the project, it’s been wonderful to witness our visitors marvel at the incredible new exhibition that highlights one of the world’s most renowned architects and brings to life a timeline showcasing the different stages of building Blenheim Palace. “We have such a rich architectural history, so this challenge is an exciting one. We can’t wait to see the submissions and do not doubt that the talented aspiring architects in the UK will create some amazing designs.” The monumental £12 million roof restoration project at Blenheim Palace began in early 2025 after a combination of age, climate change and penetration from rainfall led to the declining state of the roof, the attic timbers and ceilings below. Earlier this year, the heritage attraction launched its Sign a Slate initiative, giving the general public a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sign a roof slate in exchange for a donation to support the vital roof repairs, helping to preserve the Palace’s historic architecture and safeguard its heritage for future generations. Admission to the Blueprints of Power exhibition and to see the restoration in action is included with a valid day ticket or Pass to Britain’s Greatest Palace. Beyond this competition, on Wednesday 29th April from 4:30pm-7pm, the three judges will also join forces for a Panel Talk: Vanbrugh’s Hidden Blenheim at Donald Insall Associates studio in Marylebone. The panel will bridge the gap between historical archives and their on-site discoveries, assessing Vanbrugh’s legacy and the modern challenges of climate resilience and heritage conservation. For more information about the competition and the terms and conditions, visit www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events/john-vanbrugh-competition/ To find out about Blenheim Palace, the major restoration efforts, the new exhibition, and to book tickets, visit www.blenheimpalace.com  *Terms and conditions apply. This element of the prize will only be received by the winner of the Rising Architect (18+) category. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Royal Docks circular construction hub opens with ambition to lead Europe

Royal Docks circular construction hub opens with ambition to lead Europe

Kenneth Booth March 2, 2026

Plans to establish what is being described as Europe’s largest circular construction hub have moved forward with the official opening of a new facility in London’s Royal Docks. Delivered in partnership with Newham Council and climate charity Tipping Point East, the hub has been created to recycle and reuse construction materials that would otherwise be sent to landfill. Once fully operational, backers say it will form the largest circular construction centre of its kind in Europe. The facility marks the first phase of a broader Circular Economy Village planned for Silvertown over the next five years. Located on Greater London Authority land, the hub is intended to support the delivery of 36,000 new homes and 55,000 jobs across the Royal Docks Enterprise Zone. One of the early beneficiaries is expected to be the Lendlease-led Silvertown development, backed by The Crown Estate, which has planning consent for 7,000 homes, at least 30% of which will be affordable. By capturing materials from construction and demolition projects across the area, the hub aims to retain value within the local supply chain and reduce the environmental impact of new schemes. Supporters estimate that at least 950 tonnes of construction waste will be diverted from landfill over the next five years, alongside reductions in embodied carbon across developments that make use of reclaimed materials. The initiative responds to the significant environmental footprint of the construction sector. Construction accounts for around 62% of total UK waste, generating more than 100 million tonnes each year. While recycling rates are comparatively high, more than five million tonnes of construction waste still ends up in landfill annually. By embedding circular economy principles into one of London’s largest regeneration zones, the Royal Docks hub aims to demonstrate how major urban developments can reduce waste, cut carbon and support more sustainable building practices at scale. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Training the trainers: new programme launch aims to strengthen green construction skills pipeline

Training the trainers: new programme launch aims to strengthen green construction skills pipeline

Kenneth Booth March 2, 2026

FE tutors at Barnsley College’s Clean Energy Training Centre for retrofit training with Efficiency North and BE-ST. A NATIONAL training programme designed to upskill construction educators in retrofit and sustainable building and address the sector’s skill shortage has been brought to England for the first time by leading social housing consortium Efficiency North.  Built Environment – Smarter Transformation (BE-ST), host of both Scotland’s National Retrofit Centre and the Mass Timber Centre of Excellence, delivered the training for Efficiency North in February, building on its two years of development and delivery of the programme across Scotland.  The programme was aimed at further education (FE) sector tutors and managers from six colleges across Yorkshire and the Humber and took the form of a four-day course at Barnsley College’s newly-opened Clean Energy Training Centre, with enrolment later extended nationally across England.  The course will support FE tutors and curriculum managers to strengthen green construction skills teaching, with a focus on building physics, retrofit, the application of digital methods of construction and modern methods of construction (MMC) to reduce skills imbalances in the sector.   Simeon Perry, head of ESG at EN:Procure, the procurement specialist arm of Efficiency North, said: “With the government’s new Warm Homes Plan investing £15 billion to help upgrade up to five million homes by 2030, delivering energy-efficient retrofit at scale demands a workforce with the right skills and confidence. This is no longer an area where half measures will suffice.  “By partnering with BE-ST, Efficiency North has chosen to invest at the very start of the skills pipeline, equipping educators with the expertise to prepare the next generation of retrofit-ready construction professionals and supporting colleges to meet both immediate and long-term green skills demand.”  Designed as a leadership-focused course, the programme directly addressed the acknowledged shortage of skills within the FE sector.  It takes a whole-house approach to retrofit, with a strong emphasis on building physics and the relationship between insulation, ventilation, moisture control and energy performance. Participants also explored how emerging digital tools, including artificial intelligence, are shaping construction delivery.  One of the learners, Richard Favell, carpentry and joinery lecturer at Grantham College, said the course gave him in-depth awareness and discernment of the challenges and opportunities the sector is currently facing: “From the building physics sessions to the retrofit principles, technology in construction and exploration of new and emerging materials, I’ve come away with plenty of practical ideas and insights to apply in my work.”  The programme prioritised hands-on learning, with delegates applying theory through practical activities and live demonstrations. Structured networking sessions enabled knowledge-sharing between colleges and supported the development of consistent, high-quality retrofit training across the sector. Delegates also received comprehensive resource packs to support future course delivery within their own institutions.  Hanna Lundstrom, impact manager at BE-ST, said: “It has been great partnering with Efficiency North to deliver this programme in England. All attendees have brought great enthusiasm in both the practical exercises and the educator-to-educator discussions. From experience delivering the course in both Scotland and England, it is key for educators to get the time and space to identify and share resources on how to embed their learnings into the curriculum.”  The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) projects that Yorkshire and the Humber will need around 26,600 additional construction workers by 2028 to meet projected demand, with an annual average requirement of over 5,320 new recruits each year.  While initially focused on the region, the programme is also open to colleges nationwide to support long-term viability and wider sector impact.  The course was priced at £1,600 per delegate and is expected to generate further demand from FE colleges across England and Wales as the sector prepares to meet the growing requirement for retrofit and sustainable construction training.  For more information on Efficiency North and its skills and sustainability initiatives, visit: www.efficiencynorth.org.  For more information on BE-ST and its skills programmes, visit: https://www.be-st.build/skills-training.   Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Architectural trends bridging the gap between interior and exterior spaces

Architectural trends bridging the gap between interior and exterior spaces

Kenneth Booth March 2, 2026

The traditional boundaries between the home and the garden are increasingly blurred in modern architecture. As homeowners seek to maximise their living areas without the logistical nightmare of a full-scale brick-and-mortar extension, architects and developers are turning toward versatile, high-end structural solutions. The goal is no longer just to provide a view of the outdoors, but to create a seamless transition that allows the exterior to function as an integral part of the home’s floor plan. This shift in residential design is driven by a desire for “indoor-outdoor” living, a concept that has evolved far beyond the simple patio door. Modern developments now prioritise thermal efficiency, structural lightness, and aesthetic cohesion. By treating the garden as an additional “room,” developers can significantly increase the perceived value and utility of a property, providing the flexible spaces that the 2026 market demands. Integrating the glass sliding door into contemporary building design At the heart of this architectural evolution is the widespread adoption of the glass sliding door as a primary structural element. Unlike the heavy, framed bifolds of the past, today’s minimalist sliding systems offer expansive, uninterrupted views that effectively remove the visual barrier between the lounge and the terrace. These systems are designed to slide effortlessly, allowing for a large-scale opening that creates a fluid thoroughfare for air and light. From a construction perspective, these glass walls provide a sophisticated solution for managing natural light in narrow urban plots. They allow architects to flood interior spaces with daylight, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and improving the overall wellbeing of the occupants. When specified correctly, these systems maintain high levels of insulation, ensuring that the home remains energy-efficient during the winter while offering the possibility of a completely open-plan living experience during the summer months. Enhancing property utility with a modern carport While much of the focus on outdoor living remains on the rear of the property, the front elevation is seeing its own functional revolution. The traditional garage is often viewed as a missed opportunity for space, frequently used for storage rather than vehicle protection. Consequently, we are seeing a rise in the specification of the contemporary carport in new build developments. These structures provide a lightweight, aesthetically pleasing alternative to the enclosed garage, offering protection from the elements without the heavy footprint of a traditional building. A well-designed aluminium structure can complement the lines of a modern house, providing a sheltered area that is both practical and visually unobtrusive. This is particularly relevant in the context of the growing EV market, where homeowners require easy, sheltered access to charging points. By integrating these structures into the initial design phase, developers can offer a premium feel that maintains an open, airy street scene. The future of modular outdoor structures The trend toward modularity in construction shows no signs of slowing down. Homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to customise their properties over time, and high-quality modular kits allow for this flexibility. Many industry professionals are now looking toward specialist manufacturers like Tuinmaximaal, who provide robust, professional-grade aluminium components that can be tailored to fit specific architectural requirements. This “plug-and-play” approach to high-end garden structures allows for rapid installation with minimal disruption to the site. Ultimately, the successful bridge between interior and exterior spaces relies on the quality of the materials and the thoughtfulness of the design. By incorporating expansive glass systems and functional sheltered areas, we can create homes that feel larger, brighter, and more connected to the world outside. As we look toward the future of UK residential development, these versatile structures will continue to play a pivotal role in how we define the modern British home.

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