Urban living often presents the challenge of optimizing limited space in homes and apartments. Sliding door kits offer a versatile solution, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics in compact environments. This article explores how sliding door kits can transform urban living areas into more flexible and efficient spaces. Living in a
A major riverside regeneration project at Orchard Wharf in Tower Hamlets has been given the green light, after Regal secured unanimous planning consent for a scheme that combines affordable housing, student accommodation, public open space, and a revitalised working wharf. The development will deliver 208 affordable homes, meeting the London
Clowes Developments has received reserved matters planning consent from Ashfield District Council to deliver over 500,000 sq ft of new commercial and industrial space at Harrier Park, Hucknall. The milestone approval paves the way for the development of six high-quality commercial/industrial units ranging in size from 60,000 sq ft (5,574
The expansion of Cambridge Biomedical Campus, one of the world’s leading centres of life sciences research, medical innovation, and healthcare provision, continues with construction of 2000 Discovery Drive underway. Designed by Scott Brownrigg for campus developer Prologis, two new speculative life science buildings, 2000 and 3000 Discovery Drive, will provide
Dorchester Living has submitted an outline planning application for the next phase of Heyford Park – marking a major step in the transformation of the former RAF Upper Heyford airbase into one of Oxfordshire’s most ambitious new communities. The vision is to create a self-sufficient, sustainable settlement offering up to
Developer Chancerygate and specialist sustainable and impact investor Bridges Fund Management have sold Harlequin Business Park in Hayes, West London, to property investment firm Ableprop. Harlequin Business Park is a 90,000 sq ft sustainable urban logistics development, comprising nine leasehold Grade A units ranging from 5,100 sq ft to 39,700
The formation of a representative organisation for the real estate sector, Real Estate: UK (RE:UK) will move ahead following an overwhelming vote in favour across all three member organisations. 100% of AREF members; 99.5% of BPF members and 92% of IPF members who voted expressed their support for the merger.
The Octagon, Birmingham’s tallest building and world’s first pure octagonal residential skyscraper, has marked its practical completion, bringing to an end the three-year construction programme which has seen the building come to dominate the city’s skyline. The £110 million Built to Rent building is backed by global real estate investor,
The best construction trainees and apprentices from across the UK have been announced following this year’s SkillBuild Regional Qualifiers. The Regional Qualifier finalists all now progress to the SkillBuild 2025 National Final in November later this year. SkillBuild, delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), is the largest and
An Ipswich-based construction consultancy is in the running for a national award for its work in delivering the new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at Newmarket Community Hospital. Castons Artelia has earned a place on the shortlist in the New Build Project of the Year category at the Healthcare Estates Awards
Urban living often presents the challenge of optimizing limited space in homes and apartments. Sliding door kits offer a versatile solution, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics in compact environments. This article explores how sliding door kits can transform urban living areas into more flexible and efficient spaces. Living in a city often means dealing with limited space, which can be a significant hurdle for many. As urban areas become more crowded, the need for efficient space utilization becomes essential. One effective way to address this issue is through the use of Sliding Door Kits. By replacing traditional doors with sliding mechanisms, you can maximize floor space and introduce a new level of flexibility to your home layout. Sliding door kits blend seamlessly into various design styles, providing a modern and practical approach to managing space effectively. Enhancing home layouts with sliding door kits Efficient space utilization is crucial in urban homes where every square foot counts. Sliding door kits play a vital role in enhancing living areas by allowing more adaptable room layouts. Unlike conventional doors that require ample swing space, sliding doors slide along tracks, making them ideal for tight spaces. This not only frees up room for furniture but also allows for creative interior design possibilities, making your home feel more open and inviting. Sliding door kits provide an elegant solution to privacy concerns in shared spaces without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. They can be used to divide open-plan areas into functional zones, such as creating separate living and dining areas or partitioning off a workspace within a larger room. The ability to open or close off spaces as needed offers unparalleled flexibility, catering to different occasions and moods. By embracing sliding doors, you can effortlessly transition between open and intimate settings in your home. Moreover, sliding doors contribute significantly to the overall aesthetic appeal of your living space. Available in a range of materials, from glass to wood, they can complement any interior style. Glass sliding doors allow light to flow freely between rooms, enhancing the sense of openness and creating a bright, airy atmosphere. Wood or frosted glass options provide additional privacy while maintaining an elegant look. Maximizing available space with sliding door kits Sliding door kits offer numerous benefits that are particularly valuable in urban settings where maximizing available space is key. They help create a more open and adaptable environment by eliminating the need for traditional hinged doors that consume unnecessary floor area. This makes them an ideal choice for small apartments or homes where every inch matters. One significant advantage of sliding doors is their ability to merge indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly. When installed between a living room and balcony or terrace, they create an uninterrupted visual flow that extends your living area beyond its physical boundaries. This is especially beneficial during warmer months when you wish to enjoy fresh air and natural light without compromising on indoor comfort. Sliding doors also enhance accessibility within your home by providing wider openings that accommodate movement with ease. This feature is particularly useful for individuals with mobility challenges or families with young children who require more space to maneuver safely. Practical applications of sliding door kits in urban homes Sliding door kits can be employed in various practical applications throughout urban homes to divide spaces effectively while adding aesthetic appeal and functionality. For instance, they are perfect for creating temporary partitions between bedrooms and bathrooms or transforming large rooms into separate sleeping quarters for guests or family members. The aesthetic versatility of sliding door kits makes them suitable for modern urban homes seeking both style and practicality. Whether used as closet doors or pantry enclosures in kitchens, these systems offer streamlined solutions that enhance organizational efficiency without compromising on design integrity. Their sleek profiles allow them to blend harmoniously into contemporary interiors while offering customizable options such as mirrored panels or decorative patterns tailored to individual preferences.
A major riverside regeneration project at Orchard Wharf in Tower Hamlets has been given the green light, after Regal secured unanimous planning consent for a scheme that combines affordable housing, student accommodation, public open space, and a revitalised working wharf. The development will deliver 208 affordable homes, meeting the London Plan’s 35 per cent target and providing much-needed high-quality housing in the borough. Alongside this, 1,365 purpose-built student rooms will help ease demand in London’s rental market and support the capital’s position as a global centre for education. A key feature of the scheme is the revitalisation of the safeguarded wharf, unlocking 7,524 square metres of logistics floorspace for use by Thames Clippers Logistics. This will create a low-carbon river freight hub, reducing reliance on road transport and strengthening the role of the Thames as a vital transport artery. The proposals, shaped in collaboration with Montagu Evans, include more than 7,400 square metres of landscaped open space. Features will include gardens, children’s play areas and community facilities accessible to residents and visitors. Designs by Howells incorporate an elevated riverside garden and careful integration with the surrounding neighbourhood, ensuring the scheme contributes positively to the wider Leamouth area. Steve Harrington, Planning Director at Regal, commented:“We are delighted that Orchard Wharf has secured Planning Committee approval. This is an important step towards delivering new affordable homes and high-quality student accommodation in Tower Hamlets while ensuring the long-term future of the wharf as a sustainable logistics hub. Orchard Wharf exemplifies our commitment to creating places that balance housing need, economic opportunity and community benefit.” William Poole, Partner at Howells, added:“The committee’s decision marks a step change in London’s evolution towards more climate-resilient infrastructure solutions. The scheme enables the delivery of more than 1,500 homes in this riverside location, prioritising affordable housing alongside rooftop residents’ gardens that will be difficult to match elsewhere in the capital. We are proud to have reached this stage as part of a talented and determined team.” Construction is expected to start in early 2026, following detailed design and delivery work. Once complete, Orchard Wharf will stand as a benchmark for co-location in London, demonstrating how housing, employment and high-quality public realm can be integrated within one development. It will also reinforce Tower Hamlets’ role at the forefront of London’s regeneration, setting a precedent for unlocking underused riverside land for long-term benefit. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Clowes Developments has received reserved matters planning consent from Ashfield District Council to deliver over 500,000 sq ft of new commercial and industrial space at Harrier Park, Hucknall. The milestone approval paves the way for the development of six high-quality commercial/industrial units ranging in size from 60,000 sq ft (5,574 sq m) to 206,000 sq ft (19,138 sq m). The units will be delivered across two plots within the 31-acre site, which is currently undergoing remediation and preparatory works to ready the former brownfield land for its transformative redevelopment. The planning consent follows Clowes’ successful acquisition of the historic Harrier Park site in 2024 and the recent launch of the comprehensive, multi-million-pound enabling groundworks programme. Located on the former Rolls-Royce aerospace site, Harrier Park represents one of the most significant regeneration opportunities in Nottinghamshire. The new development will support local economic growth and job creation, bringing prime industrial and logistics space to a high-demand regional market. Clowes Developments is now well-positioned to commence delivery of the newly approved units at Harrier Park. The development is designed to accommodate a diverse range of occupiers, including those in the manufacturing, logistics, and distribution sectors. Kevin Webster, Associate Director at Clowes Developments, commented:“ Securing planning permission is a significant step forward for Harrier Park. We’re transforming a landmark site into a vibrant commercial hub that will deliver lasting economic benefits to Hucknall and the wider Ashfield area. With enabling works already underway, we are committed to progressing the scheme at pace and attracting top-tier occupiers to the development.” Harrier Park is strategically located with excellent connectivity to the M1 and East Midlands Airport. It lies outside the Nottingham Workplace Parking Levy zone and benefits from an established tram network, with a terminus located close by. These advantages make Harrier Park an ideal location for businesses looking to establish or expand their operations in the Midlands. Uniquely, Clowes Developments has also secured a total of 8.1 MVA of power for the site. This substantial capacity will be allocated based on end user requirements, offering a significant power supply for occupiers with high energy demands. Clowes Developments will continue to work closely with Ashfield District Council and other stakeholders as the scheme progresses, with further announcements expected in the coming months. Clowes Developments are working in partnership with FHP Property Consultants and Fisher German to market the site with units available from 60,000 to 206,000sq ft. Opportunities are available on both a freehold and leasehold design-and-build basis. For enquiries, please contact Tim Gilbertson on tim@fhp.co.uk or Rob Champion on rob.champion@fishergerman.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The expansion of Cambridge Biomedical Campus, one of the world’s leading centres of life sciences research, medical innovation, and healthcare provision, continues with construction of 2000 Discovery Drive underway. Designed by Scott Brownrigg for campus developer Prologis, two new speculative life science buildings, 2000 and 3000 Discovery Drive, will provide a further 215,300 sq ft NIA of state-of-the-art laboratory and office space to support growth of the world-class life sciences and biotech ecosystem at Cambridge Biomedical Campus. The designs complement the recently complete 1000 Discovery Drive, creating a family of contemporary buildings visually united by their sleek appearance and striking architectural details which include an exposed structural steel entrance and vertical accent fins. A rich materials palette will reinforce the relationship between the buildings and their setting, while providing each with a unique identity. Providing a resilient and future-proofed environment for research and development, both buildings are flexible by design with the ability to accommodate multiple tenants and a 60:40 laboratory to office split. A host of amenities, including a new “Grab & Go” café workspace will activate a landscaped area around the newly revealed buildings, whilst visible laboratory space at ground level will help to inspire the next generation of researchers by putting science on show. The placemaking strategy promotes the creation of high quality, accessible and inclusive public realm for the benefit of those on campus and the wider community alike. Placing people and their wellbeing at the heart of the landscape design, a series of diverse spaces will provide opportunities for recreation, working and socialising within a calming outdoor environment. As part of a campus-wide strategy, designs will integrate with existing pedestrian and cycle routes to support wellbeing and promote sustainable travel. A new CycleParc will sit at the heart of the landscaping, providing an innovative subterranean solution to house over 450 cycle parking spaces within an elegant arching structure. In addition, over 130 electric vehicle and bike spaces will also be provided within a new multistorey car park as part of the expansion. 2000 and 3000 Discovery Drive will target a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, following a “fabric-first” approach with key features including aluminium louvres to help optimise building solar performance, and green roofs and high-quality landscaped spaces to increase biodiversity. Rooftop solar panels will generate electricity to power communal building services, feeding into a wider all-electric energy strategy that avoids the use of fossil fuels. Building upon the success of the recently complete and fully let 1000 Discovery Drive, the latest developments will play a key role in helping to meet high demand for life science space and attract new businesses to the area enabling a vibrant and well-connected life sciences community to drive improved health outcomes to benefit people locally, regionally and globally. Construction has started on 2000 Discovery Drive and is expected to complete in Autumn 2026. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Dorchester Living has submitted an outline planning application for the next phase of Heyford Park – marking a major step in the transformation of the former RAF Upper Heyford airbase into one of Oxfordshire’s most ambitious new communities. The vision is to create a self-sufficient, sustainable settlement offering up to 9,000 homes – 2,700 of which will be affordable – alongside 900 assisted living units and 180 homes for key workers. These homes will be supported by new schools, community facilities, employment space and extensive green infrastructure. The housing crisis is not abstract. The housing crisis has a direct impact on homelessness, with more people pushed into temporary accommodation and rough sleeping because they cannot access secure and affordable homes. Across the county, over 164,000 children are homeless or living in temporary accommodation.[1] Without new, well-planned communities that provide genuinely affordable and accessible homes, housing insecurity will only deepen. Heyford Park is already a thriving place to live and work. More than 1,200 homes have been delivered to date, together with Heyford Park School for children aged three to-16, a supermarket, pharmacy, hotel, barbers, restaurant and a growing commercial cluster. Dorchester has focused on creating a place where people feel connected and supported. A wide range of social facilities bring neighbours together of all ages, including play areas, a pump track, outdoor football tables, tennis courts, and mini libraries. Heyford Park is home to a growing list of community activities, including the Heyford Makers Shed, yoga sessions, parental groups, a running club, and a thriving football club. This is just the start of the long-term vision for a vibrant, inclusive and active community. Building on this momentum, the pioneering masterplan will expand the community offering, delivering a new health hub, primary schools, a secondary school, dedicated sports facilities and employment space to support over 5,000 new jobs – many in CleanTech, low-carbon and creative sectors, providing sustainable jobs for the future. Improved connectivity and sustainable travel will underpin the settlement’s continued growth. A short journey from Heyford Station to Oxford, Heyford Park acts as a relief from housing pressure from Oxford City and supports regional growth. Plans include upgrades to Heyford Station and improvements to the Cherwell Valley Line service providing connections between Banbury and Didcot, alongside enhanced bus routes and walking and cycling routes to encourage residents to choose sustainable travel. Looking ahead, there is also an ambition to reopen Ardley Station, strengthening regional links to both London and Birmingham. Sustainability is at the heart of the masterplan. Dorchester Living will achieve a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain, with approximately 60% of the site dedicated to green infrastructure – connecting nature corridors, public parkland, walking trails and an area set aside as a Local Wildlife Site. The expansive Runway Park will serve as a multi-functional destination, offering a wide range of leisure opportunities. Framed by new woodlands and extensive landscaping, the park will be enriched by the planting of 65,000 trees, creating a vibrant and sustainable environment for generations to enjoy. The long-term ambition is for Heyford Park to become the UK’s first energy surplus town, generating more energy than it consumes through a combination of solar and wind power generation, energy-efficient design and low-carbon transport. This commitment to climate-conscious placemaking also responds to a wider regional need. According to the Housing and Economic Needs Assessment (HENA), Oxfordshire requires over 26,000 new homes by 2040 – with more than 16,800 needed outside Oxford City itself. While the city plans to deliver just over 10,000 homes by 2036, developments like Heyford Park are essential to meet demand while ensuring new communities are properly supported by jobs, infrastructure and local services from the outset. The plans have been shaped through extensive public consultation, with input from residents, schools, local groups and stakeholders. The masterplan has been developed by the award-winning practice, Proctor & Matthews Architects and renowned Landscape Architect Kim Wilkie, with sustainable movement strategies from Mode Transport Consultants. Paul Silver, CEO of Dorchester Living, said: “This is a pivotal moment in the evolution of Heyford Park. The masterplan we’ve submitted is the result of years of careful thinking and extensive collaboration with a variety of different groups including Heyford Park Parish, Great Western Rail, Heyford Park Schools and the wider local community. This is underpinned by our genuine belief that growth can be delivered in a way that’s community-led and environmentally conscious. Our goal is to deliver something exceptional and exemplar for Oxfordshire, and a national blueprint for how towns can and should be delivered in the UK, a place that not only provides homes and jobs but supports a way of life that is healthier, greener and genuinely future proof. From green energy and biodiversity to education, care and connectivity, we’re laying the foundations for a community that will thrive for generations to come.” Stephen Proctor, co-founder of Proctor & Matthews Architects, commented: “Heyford Park presents a rare opportunity to rethink how large-scale development can respond to the social, environmental and economic challenges of our time. Our masterplan is built around a series of distinct neighbourhoods, each shaped by the site’s unique history and landscape. These new places will be connected by green corridors, walkable streets and shared public spaces – creating a sense of identity, belonging and long-term sustainability from the outset. Central to the masterplan design is the innovative reuse and integration of existing airfield infrastructure and historic structures. This approach will create a distinct urban landscape that reflects the site’s rich heritage.” Eleanor Wills, Great Western Railway added: “We’re always keen to work with communities to support growth in a way that helps more people choose rail over the car. We’re pleased to be working with Dorchester Living to strengthen sustainable rail connections at Heyford Park. The proposed improvements to Heyford Station will make rail travel more accessible, integrated and appealing for both new and existing residents. “ Subject to approval, Dorchester Living hopes to gain planning consent in early 2026. For more details and to
Developer Chancerygate and specialist sustainable and impact investor Bridges Fund Management have sold Harlequin Business Park in Hayes, West London, to property investment firm Ableprop. Harlequin Business Park is a 90,000 sq ft sustainable urban logistics development, comprising nine leasehold Grade A units ranging from 5,100 sq ft to 39,700 sq ft. The scheme achieved practical completion in early August this year. All values relating to the transaction are undisclosed. Situated on Southall Lane, in an established industrial location near the Beaver Industrial Estate, International Trading Estate and Western International Market, the scheme benefits from excellent road connectivity with junction three of the M4 motorway less than one mile away and four miles from the A40. The development features electric vehicle charging points with the ability to add more based on future requirements. In addition, all properties feature air-source heat pumps and solar panels on their roofs which provide affordable green energy to run the buildings. The units are also constructed from high-performance insulative materials with controlled air tightness which reduces CO2 emissions and increases energy efficiency. These features have enabled the scheme to achieve an EPC A+ and BREEAM Excellent rating and will support it being a net zero carbon for regulated energy scheme. Chancerygate development director, Tom Faulkner, said: “Harlequin Business Park will meet the growing demand from occupiers in the West and Greater London area for flexibly sized, high specification accommodation with strong sustainability credentials. “Its strategic positioning near established industrial locations and key infrastructure connectivity enables occupiers to serve markets easily throughout the locality and the wider South East region. “The sale of Harlequin Business Park to Ableprop also evidences how our product’s characteristics and strategic positioning is attractive to both investors and occupiers.” Founded in 1995, Chancerygate is the UK’s largest urban logistics property developer and investment manager and the only one operating nationwide. The company currently has more than 1.41m sq ft of industrial space under construction or ready for development across 11 sites ranging from Edinburgh to Croydon. Bridges is a specialist sustainable and impact investor. Its property funds focus on sectors that support the transition to a more sustainable and inclusive economy, including healthcare, housing and sustainable logistics. Henry Pepper, partner at Bridges, said: “The sale of Harlequin Business Park reflects the strong demand for best-in-class, sustainable industrial units that can help occupiers reduce costs and cut emissions. “This EPC A+, BREEAM Excellent development, with its outstanding low-carbon design and environmental performance, is another great example of Bridges and Chancerygate’s ability to identify great sites and deliver best-in-class developments that are attractive to occupiers and onward investors.” For more information visit www.chancerygate.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The formation of a representative organisation for the real estate sector, Real Estate: UK (RE:UK) will move ahead following an overwhelming vote in favour across all three member organisations. 100% of AREF members; 99.5% of BPF members and 92% of IPF members who voted expressed their support for the merger. RE:UK will serve as a unified convenor and voice for the whole of the real estate sector, comprising institutional and private investors, property companies, developers, asset owners, managers and advisers. Its activities will be based around six key pillars: advocacy; research and data; thought leadership and innovation; networking and events; upskilling and training; and standards and guidance. Following the endorsement from members, the Chairs of the Association of Real Estate Funds (AREF), the British Property Federation (BPF) and the Investment Property Forum (IPF) will work together to appoint a Chair who will lead the first RE:UK Board and a Chief Executive for RE:UK. RE:UK will launch on 1 January 2026. Initially members will have dual membership and 2026 will be a transitional year as the organisations are fully integrated. Anne Breen, Chair AREF , said: “The response from the memberships of AREF, BPF and IPF has been overwhelmingly positive and a strong endorsement of our vision for a single, amplified voice for the real estate sector.” Simon Carter, President BPF, said: “I am delighted that BPF members have expressed their overwhelming support for the creation of RE:UK. I look forward to working with AREF and IPF over the next few months to turn our shared vision for a new powerful body for the sector into reality.” Clare Thomas, Chair IPF, said: “On behalf of the IPF board, I would like to thank IPF members for taking the time to consider the proposal and then giving the merger their strong support. This is the culmination of significant work across all three organisations, and we look forward to the launch of RE:UK in 2026 as an important step forward for the real estate industry.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Octagon, Birmingham’s tallest building and world’s first pure octagonal residential skyscraper, has marked its practical completion, bringing to an end the three-year construction programme which has seen the building come to dominate the city’s skyline. The £110 million Built to Rent building is backed by global real estate investor, City Developments Ltd of Singapore (CDL), and developed by MEPC, the specialist development management arm of Federated Hermes, working with main contractor and high-rise specialist Midgard, part of the JRL Group, to deliver the building. Managed by Allsop, the 49-storey, 155 metre tower, features 370 spacious new homes with incredible views across the city – and beyond – and will welcome its first residents from early September. An elegant and true landmark on the city’s skyline, The Octagon has been sustainably designed by Birmingham-based award-winning architect practice Howells and has been built to the same ethos, drawing heavily on Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and lean production methods throughout the build. The building is an integral part of the city’s £1.2 billion Paradise estate which has been developed by MEPC, the specialist development arm of Federated Hermes on behalf of its clients. As a mixed-use destination with contemporary new restaurants and leisure amenities as well as unrivalled connectivity, Paradise has become an essential destination for the city and region. The Octagon’s 360-degree design ethos openly addresses each part of the city and offers a mix of one, two and three-bedroom homes, all of which enjoy spectacular views through the 10.5m wide windows on each elevation. The dedicated residents-only amenities of the lower and upper ground floors include features designed to enrich everyday life, including a stylish resident’s lounge, a private dining area, co-working spaces and a fully equipped gym, together with concierge services and a retail unit. Neil McGinty, director at CDL, said: “Today is another key chapter in the story of The Octagon. Our original investment was recognised as one of the largest Foreign Direct Investments made in the UK regions in recent years, and that investment has now come to fruition as we prepare to welcome our first residents. This moment underlines our commitment to Birmingham as a world-class, international destination with a strong regional economy and an exceptional future. “The Octagon is moving Birmingham into a new era of city centre homes in terms of both quality and location. We’re offering some of the finest city centre homes ever seen in the UK and establishing a powerful narrative for the city. With a world-first design and highly sustainable ethos, The Octagon is already an important part of the city’s skyline.” The original Paradise masterplan always envisaged a tall building at the northern apex of the site, which The Octagon fulfils with flair. Ross Fittall, Commercial Development Director at MEPC, said: “The practical completion of The Octagon marks another milestone moment not just for this building, but for the wider Paradise estate. Welcoming new residents to Paradise is a key achievement for all of us dedicated to creating a true mixed-use destination in the heart of the city. “After more than three years of hard work, led by main contractor Midgard with a long list of local sub-contractors as well as a specialist supply-chain and professional team, including project managers Quantem, we can all now see how impactful The Octagon is to the city. “Providing much-needed high-quality city centre homes and offering a range of spacious residences from one bed to three beds, The Octagon has wide appeal. Visible from many miles away due to its location on the Birmingham Ridge, it is and will remain an icon for the city, as well as a great place to live.” The construction of The Octagon has involved hundreds of specialist workers achieving class-leading quality and finish to the final product. Kevin Keegan, director of main contractor Midgard, said: “Everyone who has worked on The Octagon is proud to have delivered this iconic landmark for the city. From utilising Modern Methods of Construction, supporting the local supply chain and working extensively with apprentices and trainees, this project has been a great example of collaborative working across the design, delivery and construction teams.” With the input of Howells as both Paradise masterplanners and designers of The Octagon, the estate is benefiting from both the practice’s wealth of expertise and its local background. Dav Bansal, partner at architects Howells, said: “This milestone moment for The Octagon underscores the building’s journey from just a bold idea that challenged the norm to becoming a superlative new home for hundreds of people in the civic heart of Birmingham. We are incredibly proud of the meticulous work we have put into this building and every innovation that has gone into delivering it. Paradise is about adding to the life and vitality of the city centre, and by providing 370 new healthy and spacious homes, we’re making the most of what the city has to offer.” The Octagon apartments are available to rent for a minimum of twelve months with rents starting at £1,400 per month for a one bed, £1,995 per month for a two bed/two bathroom and £4,925 per month for a three bed/three bathroom penthouse. For further information on the apartment rentals, contact the lettings team on 0330 236 9810 visit https://www.theoctagonbirmingham.co.uk/ or email info@theoctagonbirmingham.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The best construction trainees and apprentices from across the UK have been announced following this year’s SkillBuild Regional Qualifiers. The Regional Qualifier finalists all now progress to the SkillBuild 2025 National Final in November later this year. SkillBuild, delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), is the largest and longest-running industry skills competition in the UK and has become a prestigious showcase for those in construction. This year, over 1,000 students battled it out across 10 construction trade categories during 16 Regional Qualifiers, each one day long, in which participants were assigned a task relevant to their trade. Eight students – the highest scorers in each category – will go head-to-head in the National Final at the Arena MK, Milton Keynes on 19–20 November, where the 10 winners will be crowned top of their trade. The three-day final will consist of competitors constructing a project within 18 hours, with an expert panel of judges assessing them on a number of characteristics – including technical ability, time management, problem solving, working under pressure, and compliance with health and safety requirements. With CITB’s annual industry forecast highlighting that 47,860 extra workers are needed per year from 2025–2029, SkillBuild continues to be an important platform to spotlight the industry and the opportunities available. Richard Bullock, Head of Careers Products at CITB, said: “Congratulations to all of the competitors progressing through to the SkillBuild 2025 National Final – it’s truly a great achievement for them. “In a time when construction skills are in high demand, it is more important than ever to spotlight the next generation of construction talent. SkillBuild continues to further this mission and is proud to demonstrate the value that a trainee or apprentice provides to their team. “The quality of participants never ceases to amaze me – I’m excited to see this year’s National Final and wish all the competitors the best of luck!” Josh Thompson, Painting and Decorating Judge, said: “Having been a former contestant myself, I know first-hand just how amazing a competition SkillBuild is, and I intend to pass on any words of wisdom I can do all the competitors. It’s so encouraging to see the enthusiasm from trainees and apprentices across the industry coming from all corners of the country. Good luck to everyone participating in the Final later this year!” CITB would like to thank all the fantastic sponsors, supporters and strategic partners of this year’s SkillBuild competitions:BAL Adhesives, Band of Builders, Brick Development Association, British Gypsum, Careers Wales, CITB NI, Crown Paints, Festool, FIS, Institute of Carpenters, N&C Nicobond, NFRC, NSITG, Saint Gobain, Schluter, SPAX, Stablia, TARMAC, The Tile Association, Tilgear, Weber, Wienerberger, The Worshipful Company of Masons, and The Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
An Ipswich-based construction consultancy is in the running for a national award for its work in delivering the new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at Newmarket Community Hospital. Castons Artelia has earned a place on the shortlist in the New Build Project of the Year category at the Healthcare Estates Awards after project managing and quantity surveying for the centre’s construction last year in collaboration with partners KLH Architects, JSH, Morgan Sindall, Sweco and the West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (WSFT) The CDC has proven an instant success for WSFT, seeing more than 6,000 patients and completing almost 8,900 examinations in its first 100 days alone. Adam Fuller, Senior Project Surveyor at Castons, said: “We are thrilled to have been shortlisted for such a prestigious award. “The Newmarket Hospital CDC is a project we are truly proud of, bringing together our local partners to deliver a healthcare facility that is already making waves in the way it is revolutionising community healthcare. “Of course we are hoping for a win – but regardless, the real winners are the people living in and around Newmarket who now have access to first-class diagnostic facilities right on their doorstep, delivered by their incredible local NHS teams.” The CDC uses equipment at the forefront of technology to provide the highest quality care while tackling waiting times and optimising patient experience. Features include MRI, CT, X-ray and ultrasound scanners, alongside equipment to provide both heart and lung scans. For MRI patients specifically, the centre helped reduce the Trust’s waiting list by 37% in just six months. Nicola Booth, Head of Estates and Development at WSFT, said: “We are delighted that our new Community Diagnostics Centre has been nominated for this award. “It is thanks to the hard work and collaborative efforts of everyone involved that we were able to deliver this project on time, under budget, exceeding exceptional carbon reduction targets in the design and construction. “We are seeing that this facility is making a real difference, and has helped us improve waiting times and ensure patients get the care they need much more quickly, in a high quality, modern facility.” Hosted every year, the Healthcare Estates Awards recognise excellence in the delivery of healthcare facilities, awarding businesses for their work which showcase originality, innovation and quality. Representatives from Castons Artelia will join their fellow shortlisted businesses at the awards ceremony in Manchester on October 21. More information on Castons Artelia and its services can be found at www.castons.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals