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
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
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,
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
Saint-Gobain Weber and REGUPOL in partnership with CMS Danskin Acoustics have collaborated to develop, test and launch a suite of new impact sound insulation floor systems designed to reduce sound transmission. The new ‘weberfloor acoustic systems’ can be used to meet challenging acoustics targets across both new construction and refurbishment
West Fraser is promoting its carbon negative message via eight sponsored natural gas powered ‘eco trucks’, operating from Selco’s Minworth Delivery Hub which covers Birmingham and surrounding areas. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles emit up to 25% less carbon dioxide (CO2) and release fewer harmful pollutants into the air than
HGL signed a lease agreement for another 10,000 sqm in the HelloParks industrial real estate developer’s Maglód megapark. The dynamically-growing logistics service provider started operations last year on 5,000 sqm in the MG1 warehouse of the industrial and logistics park located near the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. With the
Four-Year Framework To Create Better Connected Sustainable City Region CBRE has been appointed to a four-year framework designed to support the delivery of Greater Manchester’s ambitious transport vision, underpinning the region’s drive towards a better-connected, greener, and more sustainable city-region. The Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) Professional Services Framework is
Cordale Housing Association, a subsidiary of Caledonia Housing Association, has officially completed a significant housing development at Dalquhurn Lane in Renton, delivering 25 high-quality new homes for the local community. A handover ceremony to mark the completion of the £5.4 million development was held on site, with new tenants Angela
WILLMOTT DIXON marks the beginning of its 20th year since its appointment to SCAPE’s national construction framework. Established in 2006, the Willmott Dixon and SCAPE partnership has enabled the delivery of almost 600 public sector projects across England and Wales, with a combined value of more than £6bn. Together the businesses have helped to deliver schools, blue-light, health
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.
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
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
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
Saint-Gobain Weber and REGUPOL in partnership with CMS Danskin Acoustics have collaborated to develop, test and launch a suite of new impact sound insulation floor systems designed to reduce sound transmission. The new ‘weberfloor acoustic systems’ can be used to meet challenging acoustics targets across both new construction and refurbishment projects, including residential, healthcare, commercial and leisure schemes. Aimed at making acoustic floor system specification more straightforward for architects, acousticians, contractors and installers who are designing and delivering developments where controlling impact sound is required or desired, the new weberfloor acoustic systems work with most floor finishes, such as LVT, sheet vinyl, laminate, timber, ceramic tiles and carpet. The collaboration draws together Weber’s flooring screed expertise developed over more than 40 years, REGUPOL’s cutting-edge acoustic product technology and the strengths of leading acoustic insulation supplier CMS Danskin Acoustics. The capabilities of the three respected brands have been combined to offer the construction market this new, wide range of fully tested acoustic flooring options. Fully tested for compatibility, the weberfloor acoustic systems unite Weber screeds and smoothing/levelling compounds with REGUPOL impact sound insulating membranes for both under screed and over screed applications to reduce noise transmission. Each component of the system is equally important in achieving the specified acoustic performance. Acoustic under screed and over screed system product selectors are clearly outlined in Weber’s new Acoustic Flooring Solutions brochure, which can be downloaded at https://www.uk.weber/weberfloor-acoustic-systems. The systems are also shown on CMS Danskin Acoustics’ website at https://www.cmsdanskin.co.uk/weber/ . Product specific technical data sheets are available from Weber and from CMS Danskin Acoustics. “In today’s construction landscape, where noise pollution is a concern, the need for effective sound insulation is critical. This is where weberfloor acoustic systems will come into play by offering solutions designed to improve the acoustic quality of spaces,” says Ian Dennis, Weber’s National Flooring Manager. “With three market leaders at the heart of these new acoustic systems, this is a significant development,” explains UK REGUPOL consultant Jamie Symons. “The market can be assured of the compatibility and integrity of the weberfloor acoustic systems, making product selection much simpler.” Andy Hayes, technical manager at CMS Danskin Acoustics and Associate Member of the IoA, adds, “The extensive development and testing work at the foundation of these systems means that, when specifying the weberfloor acoustic systems, the market can be confident in achieving both effective acoustic performance and excellent loading performance with minimal construction height.” The weberfloor acoustic systems are supported by a fully trained team of specification and technical managers who can guide clients throughout their specification and installation journey. Training, including CPD modules for architects and installers, will be announced shortly. https://www.uk.weber/weberfloor-acoustic-systems Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
West Fraser is promoting its carbon negative message via eight sponsored natural gas powered ‘eco trucks’, operating from Selco’s Minworth Delivery Hub which covers Birmingham and surrounding areas. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles emit up to 25% less carbon dioxide (CO2) and release fewer harmful pollutants into the air than traditionally powered vehicles; the collaboration highlights the connection between Selco’s sustainability goals and West Fraser’s Carbon Negative panels that promote sustainability from “tree to truck”. Daniel Andrew, Senior Account Manager at West Fraser, explains, “West Fraser is proud to collaborate with our valued partner, Selco, and sponsor these new environmentally friendlier trucks. We are highlighting the commitment both our businesses have to decrease the impact we have on our environment, by promoting our net carbon negative wood panels and transporting these on eco trucks. This type of partnership is detailed in West Fraser’s 2024 Sustainability Report, Building Together: People and Partnerships. The report details our collaborative approach and measures West Fraser’s sustainability performance across a variety of environmental, social and governance goals and disclosed targets, and shows West Fraser’s path towards achieving our goal of being a sustainability leader.” Lee Taylor, Category Manager at Selco, elaborates, “At Selco Builders Warehouse, we are firmly focused on continuing to develop a long-term and sustainable business model. We are focused on the effects our operations are having on the environment, and we’ve already made important strides forward, from fitting LED lighting across our entire estate, to beginning an overhaul of our transport system. We have a responsibility, not only to the environment and the local communities in which we operate, but also to manufacturers, suppliers, and hauliers. The Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) blueprint for what we can achieve over the next decade includes the creation of three UK “Selco forests” which have seen more than 300,000 trees planted which, during their lifecycle, will help to offset some of the carbon generated by customer deliveries. In addition, we recognise the importance of supplying renewable and sustainable building materials and products. This is where West Fraser comes in and we are delighted that they are reinforcing our message by sponsoring our CNG trucks. We have started an engagement programme with key suppliers to identify the sustainable products which already feature in our product ranges and identify new opportunities. Specific marketing materials are created to engage both customers and colleagues with these products.” For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit https://uk.westfraser.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
HGL signed a lease agreement for another 10,000 sqm in the HelloParks industrial real estate developer’s Maglód megapark. The dynamically-growing logistics service provider started operations last year on 5,000 sqm in the MG1 warehouse of the industrial and logistics park located near the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. With the current expansion, it will now conduct its activities on a total of 15,000 sqm. HGL plays a key role in processing e-commerce goods arriving in the European Union through Hungary. The company handles product arrival, customs clearance, and forwarding to the European market in Maglód, which requires fast turnaround, modern infrastructure, and reliable operations. “HelloParks Maglód offers a modern and predictable operating environment that fully meets our fast-paced and high-volume logistics needs. Based on our experience over the past year, it was clear that we wanted to further expand our capacity here,” said Paul Szeman, Chief Executive Officer of HGL Group. The current agreement not only signals HGL’s strengthening but also proves the viability of HelloParks’ airport-proximity strategy. The e-commerce company’s goal is to build a service ecosystem that comprehensively serves the needs of logistics, customs, and freight forwarding companies operating in the airport area. “HGL’s expansion is important feedback for us, as a globally active, high-volume logistics partner has decided to begin significant development in our Maglód megapark and commit to us long-term. This agreement is particularly valuable in that we managed to conclude it during a period that is challenging from a market perspective,” said András Bodahelyi, HelloParks’ senior business development manager. The HelloParks Maglód megapark currently has two completed warehouse buildings, MG1 and MG3, offering a total of 91,000 sqm of leasable space. Some 95 per cent of the available space in the buildings is already occupied, primarily due to strong demand from companies in the airport region. The MG1 warehouse is the first industrial property in Hungary to achieve BREEAM sustainability certification at the Excellent level in the New Construction category. Construction of a third warehouse, MG4, is currently underway in the Maglód industrial park, and the industrial real estate developer is already conducting advanced negotiations for its available space. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Four-Year Framework To Create Better Connected Sustainable City Region CBRE has been appointed to a four-year framework designed to support the delivery of Greater Manchester’s ambitious transport vision, underpinning the region’s drive towards a better-connected, greener, and more sustainable city-region. The Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) Professional Services Framework is a comprehensive procurement vehicle designed to provide a wide range of transport-related consultancy services to TfGM and participating authorities across Greater Manchester. Spanning sixteen specialist lots, the framework will play a pivotal role in delivering the Greater Manchester Transport Strategy 2040, which sets out a vision for “world-class connections that support long-term sustainable economic growth and access to opportunity for all.” CBRE is appointed on Lot 15 which covers Estates Advisory Services, supporting TfGM’s extensive programme of transport infrastructure projects. This includes the management and development of property assets, land assembly, and strategic advice to enable the delivery of new and improved transport facilities across the region. The appointment builds upon a long-standing relationship with TfGM, with CBRE playing a pivotal role in enabling Greater Manchester’s transport transformation, most notably through acquiring multiple bus depots to facilitate the Greater Manchester Bus Reform. As the UK’s largest regional economy outside London, Greater Manchester is at the forefront of transport innovation, with major initiatives such as the Bee Network – an integrated, London-style transport system under local control -set to transform how people travel. TfGM is also leading the way in bringing bus services under local control, expanding the Metrolink tram system, and investing in the UK’s largest cycling and walking network. A key aspect of CBRE’s ongoing partnership with TfGM is its work in leveraging the organisation’s surplus land portfolio. Through innovative estates advisory and strategic asset management, we are helping to unlock the potential of these sites to deliver thousands of truly affordable, net zero new homes. This not only supports Greater Manchester’s housing ambitions but also aligns with the region’s commitment to sustainability and inclusive growth. Adam White, Executive Director at CBRE and Lead for the TfGM appointment, commented: “We are proud to be selected by Transport for Greater Manchester to provide Estates Advisory Services as part of this transformative framework. Greater Manchester is leading the way in delivering integrated, sustainable transport, and we look forward to working in partnership with TfGM and local authorities to unlock the full potential of their property assets. Our team brings deep experience in land assembly, development, and public sector collaboration, and we are committed to supporting the region’s vision for a cleaner, greener, and more connected future.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Cordale Housing Association, a subsidiary of Caledonia Housing Association, has officially completed a significant housing development at Dalquhurn Lane in Renton, delivering 25 high-quality new homes for the local community. A handover ceremony to mark the completion of the £5.4 million development was held on site, with new tenants Angela McKenzie and Lynda Mitchell alongside Jackie Baillie MSP, and representatives from West Dunbartonshire Council. Construction began in October 2024, with AS Homes delivering the development, which includes 15 two-bedroom homes, eight three-bedroom homes, and two four-bedroom homes. Supported by over £2.6 million in Scottish Government grant funding, these properties provide much-needed, energy-efficient and sustainable homes for families in the area. Julie Cosgrove, Chief Executive of Caledonia Housing Association, added: “We are pleased to support Cordale Housing Association in bringing new affordable homes to the Renton community. This is a development we committed to making happen a number of years ago and are delighted to welcome tenants to their new homes today. As ever, partnership working has helped deliver this and it’s important to express our gratitude and celebrate our achievements together with West Dunbartonshire Council and the Scottish Government. We have not yet completed the regeneration of this site, and I look forward to working with West Dunbartonshire Council and Scottish Government to develop the next phase.” Angela McKenzie, who is moving into one of the new homes, said: “I am thrilled to be moving into my new home. It will make a big difference to me and my family. The standard of the home is excellent, and I want to thank everyone at Caledonia and Cordale. I’m pleased to be able to downsize from my existing home which allows a family to move in to make new memories.” Lynda Mitchell, who has just received the keys to her new family home, said: “It is good for me and my kids to move to a larger family home within the same area. I am really pleased with the quality of the housing development and cannot wait to move in and start afresh.” Màiri McAllan, Cabinet Secretary for Housing, said: “The completion of the Dalquhurn Lane development in Renton marks a significant milestone for Cordale Housing Association and West Dunbartonshire Council. This project has delivered 25 high-quality, energy-efficient social rented homes, supported by £2.6 million from the Scottish Government’s Affordable Housing Supply Programme. Everyone deserves a safe and warm home, and these properties will serve the local community for generations.” “We have a strong track record in affordable housing. We have supported the delivery of more than 139,000 affordable homes since 2007, with more than 99,000 of those being for social rent. We remain focused on delivering 110,000 affordable homes across Scotland by 2032. At least 70% of these will be for social rent and 10% in our rural and island communities, backed by £768 million of investment in 2025-26.” Jackie Baillie MSP said: “I am absolutely delighted that these much-needed new homes are now available for local people. There is massive demand for high-quality affordable homes in our communities and a huge waiting list for properties. These fantastic new homes, delivered by Caledonia Housing Association, will go some way to helping provide this vital housing supply.” Convener of Housing and Communities, Councillor Gurpreet Singh Johal, West Dunbartonshire Council, said: “I am delighted that tenants have begun to settle in their new homes in Renton. “Sustainable, affordable homes are much needed and with the Council’s ambitious house building programme alongside developments through partner housing associations like Caledonia, we are delivering for our residents.” Paul Kelly, Managing Director of AS Homes Scotland, said: “This development is a strong example of how government, local councils, housing associations and builders can work together to deliver sustainable, energy-efficient homes that meet the needs of families for generations to come. We’ve had the pleasure of partnering with Caledonia Housing Association on several projects across Scotland, creating high-quality homes and helping to build stronger communities. We wish all the families moving into this development the very best as they settle into their new homes.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
WILLMOTT DIXON marks the beginning of its 20th year since its appointment to SCAPE’s national construction framework. Established in 2006, the Willmott Dixon and SCAPE partnership has enabled the delivery of almost 600 public sector projects across England and Wales, with a combined value of more than £6bn. Together the businesses have helped to deliver schools, blue-light, health and defence facilities, town centre regeneration schemes, and community assets – all with a shared commitment to driving social value, sustainability and local economic benefit. Graham Dundas, chief executive officer at Willmott Dixon, said: “It is incredible that our partnership and journey with SCAPE now spans two decades. So many of our people have been involved in that time, delivering fantastic projects, and a real positive impact and legacy in their local communities. That’s something we are very proud of. “During that time, we’ve proven the power of collaboration and maintained collective success as the landscape has continued to evolve – through changes to procurement and social value legislation, and the Building Safety Act, for example. “This is a moment for us to celebrate our achievements and reinforce our commitment to shaping the future of the built environment. Together, we’re in a stronger position to create sustainable, future-ready places and spaces for people to thrive. Our continued partnership with SCAPE is an important part of our ability to deliver brilliant buildings for our customers.” Since 2006, Willmott Dixon has delivered £672m in social return on investment through SCAPE-procured schemes, consistently supporting communities local to its projects. The organisation’s work has maintained a strong local focus, with £1.6bn spent within 20 miles of SCAPE-procured project sites, 93% of project spend with SMEs, and 55% of project labour sourced locally – ensuring the benefits of its work are felt directly by the people and places it serves. Consistently high-quality outcomes are further demonstrated by ambitious sustainability standards achieved on projects, proven through well-recognised certifications such as WELL Platinum. This is the case at Willmott Dixon’s £55m project for Hertfordshire Constabulary to redevelop its headquarters, which is expected to complete next year – when Willmott Dixon and SCAPE will celebrate a full 20 years of partnership. Mark Robinson, group chief executive at SCAPE, said: “This remarkable milestone represents over two decades of strong collaboration with Willmott Dixon, resulting in the successful delivery of nearly 600 projects — from the flagship £12.8m Riga office development in Gateshead to the £28m refurbishment of the West Midlands Police headquarters. Generating £672m in social return on investment speaks volumes about the value and positive change this partnership continues to deliver— not just for our clients, but for local communities across the UK – and is something we are incredibly proud to be a part of.” Shared aspirations around sustainability and social value have been key to the partnership’s success. In support of the UK’s net-zero aims and to meet customer ambitions, the partnership has delivered innovative projects, including: Scott Corey, chief of strategic services and accounts at Willmott Dixon, said: “Back in 2006, I was working as a planner on our very first SCAPE project – Southwick and South Shields Police Station for Northumbria Police. It was the first to break ground under the framework, and there was a real sense that we were doing something different – something important. Around the same time, we started working with Gateshead Council on five new leisure centres – projects that were all about improving health and wellbeing in the community. “Even then, you could see the potential of the partnership to make a real difference. It’s amazing to look back now and see how much it’s grown over the last 20 years.” Working together, Willmott Dixon and SCAPE support public sector customers across a myriad of sectors with feasibility and viability studies, ensuring value-for-money and compliance, and leaving a positive economic and social impact. There is a breadth of public sector projects procured through SCAPE that are underway with Willmott Dixon today. They include: To learn more about Willmott Dixon, visit www.willmottdixon.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
