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Kenneth Booth
SITECH supports UK transition to renewable energy on substation project

SITECH supports UK transition to renewable energy on substation project

Kenneth Booth July 2, 2025

Advanced construction technology specialist, SITECH UK & Ireland, has played a major role in supporting Hunter Environmental, a division of Hunter Plant Hire, during the delivery of complex infrastructure works for a major renewable energy scheme in Worcestershire. The project, a 132kV substation at the JBM Doverdale Solar Farm, is

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Rodgers Leask and Powercem partnership brings first of its kind wetland project to Yorkshire

Rodgers Leask and Powercem partnership brings first of its kind wetland project to Yorkshire

Kenneth Booth July 2, 2025

NATIONAL engineering consultancy Rodgers Leask has played a pivotal role in the delivery of a cutting-edge sustainable wetland project for Yorkshire Water, in collaboration with PowerCem Technologies. Designed to manage storm overflows and reduce the environmental impact of wastewater treatment, the project in South Elmsall, Wakefield has already earned industry acclaim and is

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Robertson breaks ground on Greater Manchester fire station

Robertson breaks ground on Greater Manchester fire station

Kenneth Booth July 1, 2025

Construction has officially commenced on a community fire station rebuild in Whitefield for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), led by Robertson Construction North West. Located on Bury New Road, the new Whitefield Community Fire Station is part of GMFRS’s £38m Estates Improvement Programme and is thoughtfully designed to

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Metrocentre Secures Fresh Investment from Four Major Retail Brands

Metrocentre Secures Fresh Investment from Four Major Retail Brands

Kenneth Booth July 1, 2025

Metrocentre in Gateshead has announced a wave of new investment, as four well-known brands commit to revitalising and upgrading their presence within the shopping destination’s Platinum and Green Malls. Boots, the health and beauty giant, has led the charge with a significant refurbishment of its existing 40,000 sq ft unit

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Ofgem Backs £24bn Energy Grid Overhaul to Boost UK Power Security

Ofgem Backs £24bn Energy Grid Overhaul to Boost UK Power Security

Kenneth Booth July 1, 2025

Ofgem has given its initial approval to a landmark £24bn investment package aimed at transforming Britain’s energy grid and reducing dependence on imported gas. The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) has provisionally endorsed, subject to consultation, a programme of 80 infrastructure projects focused on new power lines and

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Latest Issue
Issue 331 : Aug 2025

Kenneth Booth

BAM UK & Ireland secures Passivhaus certification for the largest certified educational Passivhaus building in the world

BAM UK & Ireland secures Passivhaus certification for the largest certified educational Passivhaus building in the world

Kenneth Booth July 2, 2025

BAM UK & Ireland has received certification from Passivhaus Institute for Woodmill High School and St Columba’s RC High School, part of the Dunfermline Learning Campus. This project is now the largest certified educational Passivhaus building in the UK, as well as the largest Passivhaus certified building in the world in the school, college and university categories. Contractor BAM UK & Ireland worked closely with Fife Council to deliver one Passivhaus Classic dual secondary school building in Dunfermline under one roof. The school has recorded an airtightness of 0.45m3/(hr-m3)@50Pa air changes per hour, meaning less than half of the air inside the building is replaced by outside air due to leakage each hour, improving heat retention and energy efficiency. The Passivhaus education project has received certification from Passivhaus Institute, the independent institute for outstanding energy efficiency in buildings. Passivhaus buildings helps clients address the climate emergency and cost of living crisis by delivering sustainable building solutions that can help lower costs, meaning funds can be spent in the right places such as additional teaching staff. Jim Ward, Scottish regional director at BAM UK & Ireland, comments: “Passivhaus is not just about changing building standards, it’s about changing a mindset to get quality embedded into how we deliver buildings within the construction industry. We are delighted to have received certification from Passivhaus Institute, and recognition for the energy efficiency methods used to deliver Woodmill High School and St Columba’s RC High School. “The building will help to significantly reduce energy costs, while also improving air quality, creating a better learning environment for both pupils and staff. It’s a project we are incredibly proud to have delivered in close partnership with Fife Council and one that aligns with our commitment to building a sustainable tomorrow.” Cllr Cara Hilton, Fife Council’s Education Spokesperson, comments: “This certification is a fantastic achievement for Dunfermline Learning Campus. It highlights our commitment to sustainability and providing high-quality learning environments for our students.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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SITECH supports UK transition to renewable energy on substation project

SITECH supports UK transition to renewable energy on substation project

Kenneth Booth July 2, 2025

Advanced construction technology specialist, SITECH UK & Ireland, has played a major role in supporting Hunter Environmental, a division of Hunter Plant Hire, during the delivery of complex infrastructure works for a major renewable energy scheme in Worcestershire. The project, a 132kV substation at the JBM Doverdale Solar Farm, is now in its final stages, with only the retaining wall and dress stone finish remaining. Once complete, the substation will support the site’s connection to the National Grid. This connection will enable the transmission of clean energy to the grid, supporting the UK’s transition to renewable power. Hunter Environmental provides contract services, labour, landscaping and agriculture services across utilities, civil engineering and land remediation sectors. To support the Doverdale project, Hunter Environmental partnered with SITECH to deploy GPS-enabled dozers for high-accuracy grading and UAV drone technology for up-to-date site surveying. Liam Omalley, Director at Hunter Plant Hire, said: “With support from SITECH, the Doverdale project highlighted our capability in delivering technically demanding energy infrastructure. SITECH ensured our dozers were fully equipped with Trimble® machine control, and that our operators received full training as they began work with topsoil stripping and preparation, installing stone fill to create a stable working platform to support operations. “Trimble machine control technology helped our operators improve labour efficiency when laying reinforced concrete (RC) foundations, and during the integration of ducting and drainage systems. The centimetre-level accuracy of the technology was also a vital asset during the installation of a CESS tank and rainwater harvesting system to manage runoff and maximise sustainability. Another key element where the technology helped with vital precision was the construction of the NGED control room, designed to house critical operational and monitoring equipment for the substation. “The Trimble positioning systems provided the team with accurate 3D visualisations which improved visibility, safety and productivity in the installation of a 400m long 132kV cable route. This required accurate excavation, trenching and cable-pulling to establish a robust grid connection. Communications ducting and associated infrastructure were also laid to ensure operational connectivity.” The Doverdale 132kV substation is crucial to stepping down high-voltage electricity from transmission lines at the Doverdale Solar Farm to lower voltages for distribution. SITECH provided not just the technology but also comprehensive support and training, introducing Hunter Environmental to the Trimble Stratus platform for advanced UAV-based site monitoring. Phillip Matchett, Technical Sales Representative at SITECH UK & Ireland said: “We worked closely with Hunter Environmental to support them in choosing the right kit to meet the needs of the project, as well as setting up the machines and supporting operators in how to use it effectively. “By adopting high-quality drone surveying technology with Trimble Stratus, Hunter Environmental has been able to make use of real-time, accurate progress tracking, detailed site surveys and access to frequent volume data around stockpiles, excavations and other site features. The use of real-time positioning systems and automated machine control has also contributed to reduced fuel consumption and minimised material waste, alongside fewer reworks and improved accuracy. “Our partnership with Hunter Environmental, and the integration of digital tools with on-the-ground expertise, has helped ensure consistent quality, precision and safety on this project, which is all the more meaningful given it is an essential piece of infrastructure in supporting the UK’s transition to renewable energy.”  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Rodgers Leask and Powercem partnership brings first of its kind wetland project to Yorkshire

Rodgers Leask and Powercem partnership brings first of its kind wetland project to Yorkshire

Kenneth Booth July 2, 2025

NATIONAL engineering consultancy Rodgers Leask has played a pivotal role in the delivery of a cutting-edge sustainable wetland project for Yorkshire Water, in collaboration with PowerCem Technologies. Designed to manage storm overflows and reduce the environmental impact of wastewater treatment, the project in South Elmsall, Wakefield has already earned industry acclaim and is shortlisted for a national construction award this July. As a long-term delivery partner of PowerCem, Rodgers Leask supported across the 25,000 sq m scheme using its varied engineering expertise. The final layout of the sustainable wetland cells and the cut and fill model were carried out by Rodgers Leask’s civil engineering team, while the geotechnical team oversaw the soil sampling, laboratory testing, geotechnical design, and site monitoring and verification. The wetland system accommodates stormwater flows of up to 440 litres per second and was designed to significantly reduce carbon emissions, eliminate waste, and enable full recyclability at the end of the project’s life. Andy Leask, director at Rodgers Leask, said: “From the ability to act as a shield against flooding by soaking up heavy rainfall and improving water flows, through to naturally absorbing and storing vast amounts of carbon, wetlands play a vital role in supporting biodiversity and combating climate change. “The collaborative effort on this wetland scheme has been brilliant to see, and the recognition the project has already received is a testament to the success we can have when we come together to combine innovation and environmental responsibility.” The initial project design would have required the removal of topsoil to landfill, import of clay, a 650m haul road and more than 2,000 HGV movements. The solution developed by Rodgers Leask and PowerCem instead stabilised existing site material in situ, which removed the need for landfill disposal or clay importation while also eliminating the need for a temporary haul road. Based on other projects, this is estimated to have reduced the carbon footprint of the project by 80%. Andy continued: “My first project after I graduated in 1976 was a storage reservoir for Yorkshire Water and now, almost 50 years later, we have delivered a new scheme that sets an industry example for carbon reduction, reusability and sustainable design. I’m looking forward to seeing how we can apply our learnings from this project to more, larger-scale projects.” For more information on Rodgers Leask, visit www.rodgersleask.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Latest M&S store concept coming to Merry Hill across 93,000 sq ft, following significant investment

Latest M&S store concept coming to Merry Hill across 93,000 sq ft, following significant investment

Kenneth Booth July 1, 2025

Merry Hill has announced that Marks & Spencer will be introducing its latest store concept to the top 10 UK destination, following a combined significant investment package from the acclaimed British retailer and landlord. M&S has been at Merry Hill for 35 years, first opening in 1990. The decision to invest in the centre, introducing a brand-new fit-out and an M&S café for the first time, signifies a long-term commitment from the brand, creating a best-in-class anchor space for Merry Hill. The destination has been transformed in recent years with other anchor brand additions such as Hollywood Bowl, Harvey Norman, and XF Gym. Working in partnership with Merry Hill’s owners, M&S will be consolidating its offer from its two current units into one, with the store next to Primark set to expand to an overall area of 93,000 sq ft to accommodate the new concept. It will include a full fashion collection across womenswear, kidswear, and menswear, as well as larger home and beauty departments, and a refreshed, larger Foodhall. The destination will also be home to a new-look M&S standalone café in-mall area when the refurbished store opens in late 2025. Graeme Jones, Executive Director at Sovereign Centros from CBRE, on behalf of Merry Hill, commented: “The last couple of years have been transformational for Merry Hill, and agreeing with M&S to invest in the destination means we’re carrying that momentum forward. They have a strong legacy here and the move into one store will provide them with a great platform for growth which will also benefit the centre as a whole, particularly our customers. “It’s no coincidence that M&S’ investment has come to Merry Hill, joining our super regional peers in having the latest concept from a brand every destination wants. That makes this collaboration incredibly important as it means we can showcase M&S as a key anchor tenant with a lasting commitment to Merry Hill, delivering the best experience possible for our visitors.” Merry Hill’s anchor tenants have all invested in the centre in recent years. It is now anchored by two new leisure experiences in Hollywood Bowl and XF Gym, as well as an English debut and flagship for international retailer Harvey Norman, and the likes of H&M, Next, and now M&S have all upgraded their stores, ensuring the best possible visitor experience and inspiring other brands to follow suit. JLL, Time Retail Partners, and Font Real Estate represent Merry Hill.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Robertson breaks ground on Greater Manchester fire station

Robertson breaks ground on Greater Manchester fire station

Kenneth Booth July 1, 2025

Construction has officially commenced on a community fire station rebuild in Whitefield for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), led by Robertson Construction North West. Located on Bury New Road, the new Whitefield Community Fire Station is part of GMFRS’s £38m Estates Improvement Programme and is thoughtfully designed to support the next generation of emergency response. The new-build station will feature a reconfigured, more accessible layout and will be equipped with sustainable facilities, creating a modern fire station for the local community and beyond. Work began in May with the demolition of the existing station, clearing the way for the two-storey building that will benefit from a revitalised appliance bay, a state-of-the-art training tower, improved landscaping, and upgraded parking facilities. Material from the demolition has been repurposed to create the substrate for the new station, resulting in minimum waste leaving the site. The project has been designed to achieve BREAAM Excellent and will feature 47 solar panels. Whitefield is one of several fire stations being rebuilt across Greater Manchester. Robertson took over as main contractor for delivering both Whitefield and Blackley in March, after the previous contractor went into administration. This process was completed thoroughly and without delay and construction is now back on track. The new stations will include sustainable heating and lighting systems to support Greater Manchester’s target to become a carbon neutral city-region by 2038. Kate Green, Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: “GMFRS has been making strong progress over recent years and the improvements to our estate will only solidify this and push us further forward. “Our investment in our estate will create facilities the community can engage with and be proud of. We’re determined that there won’t be any reduction in fire cover across Greater Manchester, and that’s why we’re investing in new stations and additional fire engines. Communities can be confident that there will no effect on the standard and level of service while these vital rebuilds take place.” Paul Coyle, Commercial Director, Robertson Construction North West, said: “Robertson has been involved in delivering projects for the blue light sector for many years across the UK. Working with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service we will be providing a modern, high-quality facility which will enhance emergency response capabilities and meet the evolving needs of the community. “Using modern construction techniques designed to improve efficiency, quality and sustainability, we will be contributing to Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service’s Estates Improvement Programme and the region’s ambition to become a carbon neutral city-region by 2038. We will also extend our work further into the community, as a responsible contractor, we are committed to creating community wealth through the provision of local employment opportunities, supporting skills development and local engagement.” Dave Russel, Chief Fire Officer, GMFRS, said: “The beginning of construction on our second new-build community fire station is very exciting. These new fire stations will provide a positive and engaging presence in their local communities while giving our staff modern facilities. “I am proud of all the work that has gone into our estates programme, building an estate that is fit for a modern Greater Manchester.” The new-look fire station is set to be complete by October 2026, with Whitefield’s firefighters working from a temporary station on Bury New Road, ensuring the community will receive the same level of cover while the work takes place. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Procurement Hub extends Major Projects Framework 2 after generating £300million in social value

Procurement Hub extends Major Projects Framework 2 after generating £300million in social value

Kenneth Booth July 1, 2025

Procurement Hub, part of Places for People (PfP), is delighted to announce a two-year extension of its Major Projects Framework 2 (MPF2) after generating over £300million in social value. The framework, which will now run until 2028, was launched in 2022, and has already delivered hundreds of local jobs and apprenticeships, creating new opportunities. With the recent introduction of the new National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS) alongside the Procurement Act, delivering social and economic value is more important than ever. MPF2 stands as an established and accredited service to help organisations meet these requirements. Created to deliver a better way to build across the UK, MPF2 has supported all types of construction projects for a range of sectors from housing, health, transport, education and more. The £4.2 billion framework was awarded the Gold Standard by Constructing Excellence last year, making Procurement Hub and PfP the first social enterprise and non-governmental organisation to receive this accreditation, as well as the first UK housing provider to be recognised. Alan Heron, Director of Procurement for Procurement Hub and Places for People, said: “We are so proud of the results MPF2 has delivered so far and are delighted it has been extended until 2028. Designed to help the public sector build faster, smarter and fairer, the gold standard accreditation ensures construction projects not only meet high standards in efficiency and safety but also deliver long-term value and sustainable outcomes. “With the NPPS now requiring contracting authorities to focus on driving economic growth, delivering social and economic value and building commercial capacity when making procurement decisions, we can confidently say the MPF2 covers all these areas and more.  “In addition to enabling clients to benefit in all areas of procurement, the projects also support local people and skills through apprenticeships and jobs, with 100% of surplus fees donated to charities, supporting social value projects or reinvested directly into the public sector.” MPF2 has been established with three regional lots covering Scotland, England and Wales, and Northern Ireland, and sets out to be the most socially conscious, greenest, financially robust, and flexible framework available, enabling clients to benefit in all areas of procurement. Robertson Construction Group (Scotland), Willmott Dixon Construction Ltd (England and Wales), and Farrans Construction (Northern Ireland) were appointed to MPF2 following a strict procurement process ahead of the 2022 launch.   With a total value of £1.821bn, 22 projects have been completed with 73 currently in progress across the UK. Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, said: “Our long-standing partnership with Procurement Hub is rooted in trust, collaboration and a shared ambition to maximise value and community wealth building. MPF2 offers our customers an efficient and transparent route that ensures greater control from the start of projects, bringing in SME and the local supply chain earlier to create targeted, local socio-economic opportunities. This impact is evident in the 12 high-quality projects we have completed since 2022, worth £321 million, achieving 99.5% local and SME spend, and generating £142.5 million in measurable social value. “With the extension of MPF2, we look forward to continuing this momentum – delivering best value for our customers, supporting communities, and ensuring our projects create lasting benefits where they are needed most.” Chris Farr, Director for Strategic Accounts at Willmott Dixon said, “We’ve delivered some amazing projects for customers under the framework, including the new Soho Theatre in Walthamstow that’s just been completed, the multi award-winning Halifax Bus Station, a reconfiguration of Brent Civic Centre to improve the visitor experience, and Abergavenny Police Station to support local community policing.  We’re delighted that the MPF2 is extending for a further two years, it will help us continue to provide excellent outcomes for customers which includes our programmes to deliver social value in local communities as a lasting legacy of our involvement in their projects.” Mark Beacom, Pre-Construction Director at Farrans, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Procurement Hub to facilitate the delivery of the MPF2 extension in Northern Ireland. This framework provides all types of construction work for a range of sectors from health, transport, education and more, ensuring that much-needed projects can progress in a timely, sustainable and flexible way.” Features of the MPF2 include  Support from Procurement Hub’s dedicated framework management team.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Metrocentre Secures Fresh Investment from Four Major Retail Brands

Metrocentre Secures Fresh Investment from Four Major Retail Brands

Kenneth Booth July 1, 2025

Metrocentre in Gateshead has announced a wave of new investment, as four well-known brands commit to revitalising and upgrading their presence within the shopping destination’s Platinum and Green Malls. Boots, the health and beauty giant, has led the charge with a significant refurbishment of its existing 40,000 sq ft unit in the Green Mall. A tenant for nearly four decades, Boots has modernised its store to enhance accessibility to both its product range and opticians’ services. In the Platinum Mall, Clintons has completed a major store refit, unveiling a new retail concept that includes a wider selection of gifts and party supplies, complementing its established greetings card offering. Fellow Platinum Mall occupant and tour operator Kuoni has also invested in its space, installing a sleek new digital window display and reconfiguring the interior layout to create a more contemporary and engaging environment for customers. Rounding out the quartet, café chain Muffin Break – a longstanding Metrocentre favourite – has launched its new store concept, offering visitors an upgraded and refreshed experience. Ben Cox, Director at Sovereign Centros (part of CBRE), asset manager of Metrocentre, commented: “This cluster of brand investments clearly demonstrates Metrocentre’s continued importance within the retail landscape. Our close partnerships with occupiers play a crucial role in creating an exceptional shopping experience, and we are committed to helping brands maximise their potential within the centre. These enhancements reflect strong confidence in the destination and a long-term commitment from retailers.” The latest upgrades follow the recent announcement that Urban Outfitters will open its first UK store of the year at Metrocentre, occupying 8,000 sq ft in the Upper Mall – further cementing the centre’s position as a premier retail hub in the North East.

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Planning Green Light for Innovation Centre Gym Conversion at Aberdeen Energy Park

Planning Green Light for Innovation Centre Gym Conversion at Aberdeen Energy Park

Kenneth Booth July 1, 2025

Exciting Opportunity for Gym Operator as Leisure Use Approved for AM Sci Tech at Bridge of Don Site AM Sci Tech is pleased to announce that its planning application to change the use of the Innovation Centre at Aberdeen Energy Park has been approved by Aberdeen City Council. The decision grants permission to convert the building from Class 4 (Business Use) to Class 11 (Leisure Use), paving the way for the development of a high-quality gym or fitness facility at the heart of the growing Bridge of Don community. Located on Exploration Drive, the Innovation Centre is a modern, standalone building set over two floors and extending to approximately 14,000 sq ft (1,300 sq m). With a striking atrium, generous floorplan, high ceilings and excellent on-site parking, it offers an ideal setting for a gym operator looking to establish a presence in a vibrant and expanding area. The approved change of use comes at a time of major residential growth in the surrounding neighbourhood. With nearly 900 new homes under construction or in the planning pipeline from developers such as Cala and Persimmon Homes, demand for accessible fitness and leisure amenities has surged. The new facility will play a key role in supporting active lifestyles and enhancing community well-being. Gordon Pirie, Asset Manager at Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks, commented: “We are delighted to have secured planning permission for the change of use at the Innovation Centre. This approval marks a major step forward in delivering a new leisure facility that supports the needs of residents and businesses alike. A gym operator will bring real added value to the park and to the wider Bridge of Don area.” The site offers excellent connectivity to Aberdeen city centre and the wider region, with direct access to key arterial routes including the AWPR. Its location ensures convenience for both residents and the many professionals working within the business park. The introduction of a gym aligns with AM Sci Tech’s wider vision for Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks as a multi-purpose destination, home to a mix of office, industrial, and now leisure amenities. This expansion will further enhance the park’s reputation as a hub for business, health, and lifestyle. With planning permission now secured, AM Sci Tech is actively seeking expressions of interest from gym operators and leisure providers ready to capitalise on this unique opportunity. For more information or to discuss potential opportunities, interested parties are encouraged to contact Gordon Pirie on 07525 240 453. Knight Frank and Ryden are joint agents for Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Work completes on transformation of derelict railway arches in a key regeneration area in Greater Manchester

Work completes on transformation of derelict railway arches in a key regeneration area in Greater Manchester

Kenneth Booth July 1, 2025

Architectural practice Stephen George + Partners (SGP) has announced that work has completed on a scheme in Salford, Greater Manchester, that has seen the redevelopment of previously derelict railway arches into new destinations for businesses to occupy. Triton Construction was appointed as main contractor for the scheme late last year, following a receipt by the Arch Company of planning consent. Alan Soper, Studio Director at SGP, comments: “We are delighted to see work complete on the transformation of these historical arch structures into spaces for businesses to develop and thrive. Located in a key area of regeneration and renewal within Greater Manchester, The Arch Company’s investment will help to provide new spaces where businesses can thrive.”  As design architect for the scheme SGP has drawn on both its technical expertise and strong track record working with historic buildings to create contemporary spaces, which nod to the industrial heritage of the arches. The scheme includes new glazed frontages, new services and drainage and internal lining to make the accommodation dry and ready for new businesses to occupy. The design incorporates high-quality materials that have restored an attractive appearance to the elevations on Norton Street, creating a parade of arches that will appeal to a range of businesses. Working in partnership with SGP, multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard provided structural, civil, and MEP engineering services to support the transformation of the arches. Matt Barron, Associate Structural Engineer at Pick Everard, commented: “The refurbishment of the arches required a sensitive approach to ensure the integrity of the existing structure was maintained while enabling the modifications required for the project. With careful coordination of the structural interventions within the existing arch structures, our team worked closely with SGP to achieve the architectural design intent for the arch spaces. It’s been a fantastic project to be a part of, and we look forward to seeing these rejuvenated spaces contribute to the benefit of the local area.” SGP’s design has sought to overcome a number of technical, environmental and planning constraints that are inherent within existing urban infrastructure of this type, as Alan Soper explains: “By any standards, arches are not a ‘normal’ building type and realising the potential of these spaces takes experience and good technical know-how if we are to refurbish them to modern occupancy standards.” Norton Street is just one of several projects on which SGP is working with The Arch Company, with a number now on site or completed. In London, work has already been completed on the redevelopment of six vacant railway arches on Witan Street into high-specification commercial premises for light industrial use; while on America Street in Southwark, work has completed on the transformation of four dilapidated railway arches into commercial spaces. For further information visit www.thearchco.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Ofgem Backs £24bn Energy Grid Overhaul to Boost UK Power Security

Ofgem Backs £24bn Energy Grid Overhaul to Boost UK Power Security

Kenneth Booth July 1, 2025

Ofgem has given its initial approval to a landmark £24bn investment package aimed at transforming Britain’s energy grid and reducing dependence on imported gas. The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) has provisionally endorsed, subject to consultation, a programme of 80 infrastructure projects focused on new power lines and substations. The investment forms part of the biggest overhaul of the UK’s electricity network since the 1960s. More than £15bn of the proposed funding is earmarked for maintaining the safety and reliability of the UK’s gas transmission and distribution networks. A further £8.9bn will go directly into strengthening the country’s high-voltage electricity grid, with an additional £1.3bn on standby for rapid deployment. This investment marks the first stage of the RIIO-T3 settlement (April 2026 to March 2031) and will kick off a broader, estimated £80bn infrastructure programme designed to modernise the energy grid. The plan includes upgrading over 4,400 km of overhead lines and adding 3,500 km of new circuits, including offshore developments—doubling what has been delivered over the past decade. If completed as expected, the projects will enable the grid to support up to 126 GW of clean, renewable energy by 2030, alongside increased energy storage and flexible technologies. Over the past six months, Ofgem has closely scrutinised the proposals from electricity transmission owners, National Gas, and gas distribution operators. More than £8bn—around 26% of the original proposals—has been trimmed to ensure the plans offer value for money to consumers. Funding allocations include: Jonathan Brearley, Ofgem Chief Executive, commented: “Britain’s dependence on imported gas has left us vulnerable to global market shocks. Without government support, bills could have soared to £4,000 during the energy crisis.This record investment is vital to building a homegrown energy system—one that protects us from price volatility, strengthens our energy security, and helps stabilise bills.” Brearley emphasised that inaction would cost consumers more in the long term. “Doing nothing is not an option. These 80 projects are an insurance policy for the UK’s energy future. We’ve negotiated a fair deal for investors and consumers alike—and we will hold network operators accountable for delivering on time and within budget.” By March 2031, the estimated cost to billpayers is expected to be around £24 a year, or less than 40p per week. This figure does not include the broader cost savings anticipated from a cleaner, more efficient power system. The draft proposals are now open for consultation, with final decisions due by the end of 2025. However, some energy firms have expressed disappointment, arguing that the scale of ambition should have been greater. SSEN Transmission responded: “Ofgem’s draft determination falls short of the ambitious and financeable framework needed to support transformational grid investment. The methodology does not reflect the real, evidence-based costs of delivering a reliable transmission network in northern Scotland.” Despite these concerns, Ofgem remains confident that the proposed investment strikes the right balance between affordability, resilience, and long-term sustainability. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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