Evolve Estates, part of the M Core commercial property investment collective, has expanded into the private healthcare sector with the acquisition of two private hospitals in Diss, Norfolk, and Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire. The acquisitions, on behalf of Leathbond Limited and LCP Securities, mark a strategic move as Evolve diversifies into
In response to the Scottish Minister of Public Finance, Ivan McKee’s, announcement on reforming Scotland’s planning system, Timothy Douglas, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Propertymark, comments: “Reforming Scotland’s planning system is key to making housing more affordable and measures to create a new planning hub and increasing the capacity
Civic has acquired leading mechanical, electrical and public health building services and sustainable energy design consultants, Watt Energy & Consulting Engineers. The North West based consultancy, led by Dan Watt, works on public and private sector projects across the UK. The company has gained a reputation for providing low carbon
Whitbread PLC, the parent company of Premier Inn, has secured terms with Riverstone Hotels Ltd to open a 200-room Premier Inn hotel within walking distance of Edinburgh Airport. This development aims to expand Premier Inn’s presence near Scotland’s busiest airport, a major hub for over 150 domestic and international flights.
Solivus, a leading UK provider of lightweight solar installations for commercial applications, has designed and delivered a £2m solar installation to Farnborough Airport, taking it one step closer to its commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2030. Located in Farnborough, Hampshire, Farnborough Airport is the home of British aviation
A major milestone for affordable housing in Dorchester has been achieved with the completion of Eldridge Street, the first phase of The Hops, a £23 million wholly affordable housing development in the heart of Dorchester. Developed in partnership between AJC Group and Aster Group, this project brings 56 energy-efficient homes
MSV Housing Group has selected Caddick Construction as main contractor on its new over 55s residential development off Manchester Road in Chorlton. Due for completion in 2026, the former Chorlton Baths site will bring 50 new-build HAPPI (Housing our Ageing Population Panel for Innovation) designed apartments to the local area,
Homes England has announced the appointment of Eamonn Boylan as its interim Chief Executive, succeeding Peter Denton, who will step down in January 2025. Boylan is set to begin his role on 15 January, bringing over 42 years of experience in significant public sector roles to lead the Agency through
Landsec has taken full ownership of MediaCity in Salford, acquiring Peel Group’s remaining 25% stake in the iconic mixed-use development. The real estate investment trust (REIT) also gained ownership of dock10, MediaCity’s television facility, and the estate’s 218-bed hotel, both previously held by Peel. The transaction, which includes a cash
Cygnus, a leading developer and manufacturer of EN 54 certified and 100% wireless fire detection and alarm systems, will be showcasing its latest product innovations on stand K20 at this year’s London Build, the UK’s leading & largest construction show. London Build takes place from 20-21 November 2024 at Olympia,
Evolve Estates, part of the M Core commercial property investment collective, has expanded into the private healthcare sector with the acquisition of two private hospitals in Diss, Norfolk, and Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire. The acquisitions, on behalf of Leathbond Limited and LCP Securities, mark a strategic move as Evolve diversifies into high-growth sectors. The company has acquired a fully operational private hospital in Scunthorpe and a facility in Diss with opportunities for further development. Both hospitals will operate under a sale-and-leaseback arrangement with Trent Cliffs Private Healthcare Limited (TCPH). Meridian House, Scunthorpe The Scunthorpe property, Meridian House, is a private healthcare and rehabilitation facility spanning over 30,800 square feet. TCPH is currently refurbishing its first floor to establish a high-quality care and rehabilitation space, which will be sublet to Revitalise Care Limited. Plans are also underway for an additional floor, which, subject to planning approval, will provide an extra 15,000 square feet dedicated to NHS rehabilitation beds, addressing rising demand for healthcare services in the area. St John’s House, Diss In Diss, Evolve Estates will manage St John’s House, a property leased by TCPH and jointly operated by Revitalise Care Limited. TCPH plans to invest in bespoke operating theatres and recovery rooms, enhancing the hospital’s capabilities and broadening its patient services. Expanding into Growth Sectors Over the past 12-18 months, Evolve Estates has prioritised investments in sectors with strong growth potential. This new focus on private healthcare reflects an evolving strategy to diversify its portfolio. Dan O’Keefe, Co-Founder of Evolve Estates, remarked, “Our entry into private healthcare with these two outstanding facilities aligns with our broader investment strategy. Expanding into healthcare complements our solid retail foundation and positions us to benefit from high-growth sectors. We are excited to work closely with the operators to ensure these facilities meet the healthcare needs of local communities.” O’Keefe also acknowledged the support from their team, as well as Andrew Cooper at Clarke Wilmott and Jim Remfry at DTRE, in bringing the acquisitions to fruition. Collaborative Asset Management The assets acquired for Leathbond and LCP Securities reflect Evolve Estates’ commitment to a unified asset management approach, with the two companies already benefiting from Evolve’s extensive portfolio management experience. The acting agents for Trent Cliffs Private Healthcare on these acquisitions were Peter Arduino and Matt Chambers of Arduino Chambers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In response to the Scottish Minister of Public Finance, Ivan McKee’s, announcement on reforming Scotland’s planning system, Timothy Douglas, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Propertymark, comments: “Reforming Scotland’s planning system is key to making housing more affordable and measures to create a new planning hub and increasing the capacity of local authorities by training additional planners to accelerate planning applications will help build the homes that Scotland needs. “However, as the Minister said, planning isn’t the only solution to unlock more homes in Scotland and solve the housing crisis. Reviewing the tax people pay when purchasing property, bringing more empty homes back into use through financial grant support, building more social homes, introducing tax incentives to encourage investment in the private rental sector as well as requiring local authorities to have a plan for retirement housing and incentivising people to right size can also boost the supply of homes. Propertymark will continue to call for action in these areas.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Civic has acquired leading mechanical, electrical and public health building services and sustainable energy design consultants, Watt Energy & Consulting Engineers. The North West based consultancy, led by Dan Watt, works on public and private sector projects across the UK. The company has gained a reputation for providing low carbon sustainable design solutions for clients, with current work including Capital & Centric’s iconic Littlewoods building project in Liverpool, Leeds City Village, Collyhurst Village and Trafford Wharf in Manchester. This acquisition is the third addition to Civic in the last few months following the announcement of the creation of archaeology and heritage consultancy, Civic Heritage, in September and the acquisition of place experts New Practice in October. Civic, a team of system thinkers in the built environment, was set up to carefully curate new complementary service offerings and to provide opportunities for growth so clients can benefit from an increased variety of services and exceptional quality project work, with a wider aim of achieving greater social and environmental impact. Established in 2015, Watt employs 12 people who provide innovative and practical engineering design that reduce the environmental impact of buildings and infrastructure in the built environment. Services include mechanical, electrical and public health engineering design, energy modelling and environmental sustainability services. Founding Director, Dan Watt commented on the acquisition: “We have collaborated with Civic Engineers for many years and have always worked well together. We have shared values and a real focus on solving problems for our clients, providing them with the most sustainable design solutions that put people and the environment at their heart. Joining the wider Civic team will help us to further our ambition of becoming a market leader, and enable us to have an even greater impact together.” Stephen O’Malley, Chief Executive of Civic, said: “It has been quite a momentous few months for Civic and it is fantastic to be able to announce the addition of Watt Energy & Consulting Engineers. We have known Dan for a long time and he is a valued collaborator, so this acquisition seems like a very natural fit. “The whole ethos behind Civic is about us having the ability to make a positive impact and to respond to the climate and societal challenges we are facing. We believe by carefully curating a team of experts with shared values and approach, we are offering clients the services they are telling us they need, and the opportunity to really put climate resilience and designing for people at the heart of everything.” Civic’s advisors for the acquisition included Cowgills as corporate finance and Hill Dickinson as solicitors. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Whitbread PLC, the parent company of Premier Inn, has secured terms with Riverstone Hotels Ltd to open a 200-room Premier Inn hotel within walking distance of Edinburgh Airport. This development aims to expand Premier Inn’s presence near Scotland’s busiest airport, a major hub for over 150 domestic and international flights. The planned hotel, set to be four storeys high, is being developed in collaboration with Whitbread’s partner, with a formal planning application scheduled for submission to the City of Edinburgh Council early next year. If approved, the hotel will offer guests a convenient 10-minute walk to the terminal, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers. Jill Anderson, Acquisitions Manager for Whitbread, explained the appeal of the project, stating, “The case for expanding Premier Inn at Edinburgh Airport is compelling. In 2023, almost 14.5 million passengers travelled through the airport—a 30% rise from the previous year—and international routes are growing. With the airport’s continued success, we see a prime opportunity to establish a Premier Inn hotel right next to the terminal. It’s an exciting prospect for our guests and a testament to Whitbread’s focus on investing in high-demand locations.” The new hotel will feature Premier Inn’s latest room designs, including its popular Premier Plus rooms, and a ‘The Social’ space on the ground floor for guests. Positioned on Eastfield Road, the primary route to the airport, the L-shaped building will offer 100 dedicated parking spaces. Furthermore, the site is designed with sustainability in mind, powered exclusively by renewable electricity and aiming to achieve a BREEAM ‘very good’ rating. John Rumsey, Development Director at Riverstone Developments, expressed confidence in the collaboration: “Whitbread’s strong reputation and Premier Inn’s recognisability to travellers made this partnership an easy choice. With Whitbread’s established track record and solid financial performance, we’re thrilled to commit to a leasehold development. Should we obtain planning consent, we are ready to move forward and bring Premier Inn closer to the airport as soon as possible.” To gather public feedback, Whitbread and Riverstone will host consultation events on the 19th of November and 17th of December at The Pavilion, Royal Highland Centre, from 1 pm to 6 pm. This Edinburgh expansion follows recent news of Premier Inn’s largest hotel in northern England, a 276-room property at Manchester Airport, set to serve the UK’s third busiest airport. Whitbread’s latest projects continue to underline its commitment to strategic growth in high-traffic locations, providing convenient, high-quality accommodation for travellers across the UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Solivus, a leading UK provider of lightweight solar installations for commercial applications, has designed and delivered a £2m solar installation to Farnborough Airport, taking it one step closer to its commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2030. Located in Farnborough, Hampshire, Farnborough Airport is the home of British aviation and widely recognised as Europe’s leading airport for premium travel connectivity. In its ongoing efforts to be a sustainability showcase for other airports around the world, it has a clear strategy in place to reach net zero by 2030, well ahead of the industry standard. As part of this, Farnborough Airport sought to reduce electricity and gas usage and invest in onsite renewable production. However, the path to self-generation proved less than straightforward. Foremost, due to operational and environmental restrictions on land use, the installation of ground-mounted solar at scale was not possible making rooftop solar the only option. At the same time, the iconic architectural curves of the airport building were not conducive to fitting traditional rigid solar panels while – in common with 40% of commercial buildings like aircraft hangars, the rooftops were unable to support the associated weight. The solution to overcoming these challenges and installing the desired solar was provided through partnering with lightweight solar technology pioneers, Solivus. Offering a competitive performance without the bulk, Solivus’ lightweight solar solution provides a practical, efficient, and cost-effective option for commercial rooftops, allowing large premises to harness solar energy while minimising structural concerns and installation complexities. Furthermore, Solivus’ lightweight solar solution can be used on a wide variety of roof surfaces, and is typically installed with no penetration of the roof itself and has much lower glare characteristics compared to conventional solar panels. Now complete, the installation, which commenced works in January 2024, has seen over 4,000 lightweight solar panels installed on hangars one and two, the terminal, the control tower, and the Airport’s award-winning 169-room hotel, the Aviator Hampshire. Constituting one of the largest rooftop solar installations in the region, the works will enable up to 25% of the airport’s annual electricity needs to be met, as well as enabling its growing operational fleet of electric vehicles to be charged using self-generated electricity. With approximately 75% of solar energy generated to be used on-site, the remaining 25% will be sold back to the energy supplier, thus making the financial case for solar even more attractive. In total, the installation will deliver over 1,700 kWp of installed capacity, generating over 1.2 GWh of clean energy every year while taking Farnborough Airport a major leap forward in its bold target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. The PV installation is expected to generate over 36 GWh of energy in its lifetime and offset more than 5,000 tonnes of CO2e in that time. Importantly, the project, which was planned, delivered and executed as a complete solution by Solivus, was meticulously phased to minimise disruption for the busy airport. Safety was accounted for too. Working closely with the National Air Traffic Services, Solivus’ design was purposefully constructed to minimise any glint and glare. This included a comprehensive feasibility study, testing factors such as generation potential and shading to determine the optimal placement of panels. Farnborough Airport’s ambitions for renewables are expressed by the Group’s CEO, Simon Geere: “In line with our ambition to become a sustainability showcase for airports around the world, we’re proud to have partnered with lightweight solar technology pioneers, Solivus, to install one of the largest rooftop solar projects in the region. The lightweight solar installation is a significant step towards achieving our sustainability objectives, significantly reducing our controllable emissions, as set out in our Net Zero Roadmap, in which we have committed to be Net Zero by 2030 or sooner.” Interestingly, the solar installation aligns with a recent government bill, which encourages the extensive deployment of rooftop solar on domestic industrial and commercial property to make effective use of available surfaces as a priority. Solivus CEO, Jo Parker-Swift says: “Rooftop solar is crucial for decarbonising the built environment, but its application has often been constrained by the structural limitations of many commercial buildings. Put simply, traditional solar panels are too heavy for many rooftops. Our lightweight solar innovation addresses this issue, enabling large-scale, cost-effective solar deployment across nearly all large commercial buildings and sites. “We are proud to have worked with Farnborough Airport to ensure the future supply of renewable energy, supporting the airport’s progressive net zero emissions journey. We encourage other airports to seize the opportunity to benefit from our lightweight solar energy installations and advance their own sustainability initiatives. For further information please visit: https://www.solivus.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A major milestone for affordable housing in Dorchester has been achieved with the completion of Eldridge Street, the first phase of The Hops, a £23 million wholly affordable housing development in the heart of Dorchester. Developed in partnership between AJC Group and Aster Group, this project brings 56 energy-efficient homes to the community, including the first-ever affordable four-bedroom family homes in Brewery Square—a rare offering in the region. Eldridge Street is a collection of 25 one- and two-bedroom apartments and 31 contemporary three- and four-bedroom terrace houses, exclusively available through Aster Group’s shared ownership scheme. The demand for larger affordable family homes has long been a challenge in Dorchester, and this development is poised to address that need. Formerly a vacant brownfield site, The Hops, is AJC Group’s largest development to date and is due to be completed in December 2024. Part of the broader 20-year regeneration of Dorchester’s town centre, Eldridge Street showcases AJC Group’s high standards of construction and energy efficiency, with all homes achieving a high EPC rating of B. David Cracklen, Director of AJC Group, said: “Dorchester has long faced a shortage of affordable housing, and we are immensely proud to deliver the first collection of four-bed family homes in Brewery Square. These spacious homes meet the need for larger families without compromising on quality or energy efficiency.” “At AJC Group, we are committed to setting a new precedent for affordable housing, one that we hope will serve as a catalyst for change, inspiring future developments to prioritise both size and sustainability.” Brewery Square is within short walking distance of The Hops and has a wide range of amenities, including a state-of-the-art cinema, restaurants and bars, and shops. Eldridge Street is just a short walk from Dorchester South train station, with services to London Waterloo in under two hours, and more local journeys to the coast, including Weymouth, only taking 10 minutes. AJC Group continues to grow its presence across the Wessex region, with five additional projects currently underway. These developments include affordable housing initiatives in Dorchester, The New Forest, and the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole areas. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
MSV Housing Group has selected Caddick Construction as main contractor on its new over 55s residential development off Manchester Road in Chorlton. Due for completion in 2026, the former Chorlton Baths site will bring 50 new-build HAPPI (Housing our Ageing Population Panel for Innovation) designed apartments to the local area, consisting of two five storey buildings. Of the 40 affordable rent apartments, 30 will be single-bed homes and 10 two bedroom homes. Elsewhere on the development will be seven shared ownership homes for sale, and three neighbourhood apartments, which will be leased to Manchester City Council. Caddick’s work to deliver these low-carbon, affordable homes will also involve the creation of a residents’ lounge and all external works, including a central courtyard and garden for residents’ use, car parking facilities and bicycle storage. The £14m extra care development receives its funding invested through MSV Housing, Manchester City Council, Greater Manchester Combined Authority, and Homes England. Dave Saville, Regional Managing Director for Caddick Construction North West, comments: “In the past year alone we have delivered on a great number of extra care facilities across the North West, including the multi-award winning Sandalwood Drive in Wigan on behalf of Wigan Council, and Lancaster’s first extra care facility on behalf of Progress Housing Group. “This model of specialist accommodation for the over 55s is in high demand, and we are pleased to bring our extensive expertise in high-quality, residential builds, and our local and reliable supply chain to deliver these much needed homes for the local community.” Charlie Norman, CEO for MSV Housing, comments: “We are so pleased that this development is now on site thanks to our partnership with Manchester City Council. With an ageing population and the need to live well in our later years, it is essential that we provide more age friendly homes for older people in Manchester. This high quality new HAPPI scheme will offer safe, warm, affordable and comfortable homes in a fantastic neighbourhood close to shops, transport and medical facilities. At the same time, we expect that larger family homes will be freed up for larger families struggling to find the right home. I would like to thank our colleagues within MSV, and colleagues at Manchester City Council, GMCA and Homes England for their continued support and look forward to working with Caddick to see the first residents move in to their lovely new homes.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Homes England has announced the appointment of Eamonn Boylan as its interim Chief Executive, succeeding Peter Denton, who will step down in January 2025. Boylan is set to begin his role on 15 January, bringing over 42 years of experience in significant public sector roles to lead the Agency through its strategic priorities. Boylan’s impressive career includes senior roles such as Deputy Chief Executive of Manchester City Council, Chief Executive of Stockport Council, and Deputy Chief Executive of the Homes and Communities Agency, the forerunner of Homes England. His extensive background in public sector leadership, particularly in housing and regeneration, positions him to make a strong impact in advancing the government’s housing and community initiatives. Homes England moved quickly to secure an interim leader, with the appointment approved by the Deputy Prime Minister. Housing and Planning Minister Matthew Pennycook expressed confidence in Boylan, stating, “Eamonn brings unparalleled expertise and a successful track record in strategic leadership. I am confident he will drive Homes England’s efforts to boost housing supply and foster place-based regeneration. I look forward to collaborating with him in the new year.” Peter Freeman, Chair of Homes England, added, “Eamonn’s experience in public sector leadership, particularly in housing and community development, makes him an ideal choice to lead during this period. The Board and I are confident that under his leadership, Homes England will continue creating thriving communities that truly enhance people’s lives. We eagerly anticipate welcoming him to the team.” Boylan shared his enthusiasm for the role, highlighting the Agency’s goal of delivering 1.5 million new homes within the current parliamentary term. “I am ready to help tackle the challenges ahead and deliver on the government’s housing ambitions. My focus will be on strengthening partnerships, empowering local leaders, and driving forward housing initiatives that positively impact lives. I am proud to join a talented team, and together with our partners, I am confident we will rise to the task.” Boylan’s leadership is set to steer Homes England through a critical period, reinforcing its role in creating sustainable, vibrant communities across the country. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Landsec has taken full ownership of MediaCity in Salford, acquiring Peel Group’s remaining 25% stake in the iconic mixed-use development. The real estate investment trust (REIT) also gained ownership of dock10, MediaCity’s television facility, and the estate’s 218-bed hotel, both previously held by Peel. The transaction, which includes a cash payment of £22 million and the assumption of £61 million in secured debt, totals £83 million. Landsec secured this at a discount to the latest book value of its existing 75% holding in MediaCity, a reflection of Peel’s surrender of “wrapper” leases and the potential income loss associated with those leases. Factoring in the additional assets of the hotel and dock10 studios, the transaction aligns with the book value of MediaCity, ensuring it remains earnings-neutral in the short term. With this acquisition, Landsec gains full control over the future direction of MediaCity, including the adjacent land that offers substantial development potential. The REIT is now positioned to lead the estate’s next growth phase, with plans to create more residential spaces and attract a mix of innovative businesses to the area. Mike Hood, CEO of Landsec U+I, commented, “MediaCity has immense potential. With our increased ownership, we can fully realise our vision for the area—creating a vibrant community where people come to work, live, and enjoy their lives. We look forward to sharing more about our plans soon.” Earlier this year, Landsec received approval for an expansion of MediaCity that will deliver an additional 800,000 sq. ft. of commercial space and 3,200 new homes. With complete ownership, Landsec is now in an ideal position to drive the continued transformation of this landmark destination in Salford. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Cygnus, a leading developer and manufacturer of EN 54 certified and 100% wireless fire detection and alarm systems, will be showcasing its latest product innovations on stand K20 at this year’s London Build, the UK’s leading & largest construction show. London Build takes place from 20-21 November 2024 at Olympia, London and attracts over 30,000 contractors, architects, civil engineers, developers, local councils, house builders/associations and construction professionals. “We are looking forward to being back at London Build,” comments Stephen Marsh, Head of Sales at Cygnus. “At last year’s event we were showcasing the world first EN 54 certified 100% wireless fire detection and alarm system, SmartNet. This year we are back with additional solutions to enhance the range including the Cygnus ALERT remote monitoring and notification platform, the new Cygnus Mesh Analyser and the Portal Programming Unit (PPU). We’ll be demonstrating the capabilities of SmartNet-Pro and SmartNet-100 as well as the Mesh Analyser and Cygnus Config Tool software. It is exciting to have a such a comprehensive range of innovative solutions to share with visitors.” SmartNet is EN 54 certified and a BS5839-1 compliant system, up to twenty times faster to install than wired systems, with minimal disruption. The SmartNet network is built on a combination of radio devices, operating on a self-forming, self-healing wireless mesh network with multipath network redundancy utilising channel hopping technology, delivering a reliable and robust solution. SmartNet-Pro offers a scalable solution with the capability for each panel to connect 511 devices and up to 96 zones, with networking of up to 5 panels available via a software release code, providing a combined solution of over 2500 devices. Whilst SmartNet-Pro* caters to the larger scales of application, SmartNet-100** provides all the key benefits of SmartNet-Pro in a more cost-effective solution, designed to support a maximum of 100 devices. Based on this nature, SmartNet-100 is best suited for small to medium sized applications where the scalability of the SmartNet-Pro is not required. The Cygnus team will also be on hand at the event to discuss the recently launched Cygnus ALERT, the perfect remote notification and monitoring complement to Cygnus’ world first, EN 54 certified and 100% wireless SmartNet range of fire detection and alarm systems. Using Cygnus ALERT, installers and site administrators can receive event, fault or mesh information in real-time, enabling swift responses to on-site situations. Cygnus ALERT presents easy user management to view and notify across multiple sites, and a variety of environments. In addition to Cygnus ALERT, the new Cygnus Mesh Analyser will be on display. The Cygnus Mesh Analyser is an enhanced diagnostic and maintenance software tool, delivering a graphical display of mesh signal strengths and connection paths for each device in the system. Furthermore, the Cygnus Mesh Analyser aids the commissioning process of fire safety systems, shows the device history and provides suggestions of how to strengthen the network. The new Cygnus Portal Programming Unit (PPU) has been designed to help with the planning and deployment of the SmartNet system. The PPU allows installers to deliver firmware and configuration updates to devices wirelessly whilst they are on site, making the whole process faster and more efficient for areas that are hard to access. The new Cygnus Site Survey kit allows installers to deploy three bespoke detectors that replicate the mesh network to ensure the suitability of the system for the environment. For more information, visit the Cygnus stand (K20) at London Build, and visit https://www.cygnus-systems.com/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals