WORKPLACE design and build specialist ODCreate has delivered a category A+ project, reimagining 7,000 sq ft of office space in central London. The offices – situated close to Leicester Square at 101 St Martin’s Lane – have been refurbished for landlord KGAL, an independent German investment and asset manager, with ODCreate
Vattenfall IDNO launches a Grid Capacity Insights Platform, designed to streamline the grid connection for commercial and industrial developers in the UK Vattenfall IDNO had launched a Grid Capacity Insights Platform, a cutting-edge tool designed to simplify and accelerate the grid connection process for commercial and industrial developers across the
A HIGHLY-ANITICPATED £9.5 million project to modernise Lichfield’s leisure centre provision has begun in Stychbrook Park, with complete construction partner Stepnell appointed to undertake the design and build by Lichfield District Council. Procured through the Procure Partnerships Framework, the work will deliver a brand-new centre in a bid to support the
Sheffield’s leading construction firm, Henry Boot Construction, has teamed up with several of its supply chain partners to deliver a pro bono office fit-out for local wellbeing charity, Golddigger Trust. Officially registered as a charity in 2007, Golddigger Trust has supported thousands of young people over the years, building positive
NBS and CPI set to improve the quality and standard of product information within the construction industry Yesterday, NBS, a leading specification and construction product platform for the construction industry, announces its partnership with CPI Ltd, the independently governed, not-for-profit organisation responsible for the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI).
The National Home Decarbonisation Group, in partnership with Futurebuild and Innovate UK, has launched its Big Retrofit Challenge, a bold new competition aimed at unearthing game-changing solutions in home decarbonisation. The Big Retrofit Challenge offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and companies to showcase their innovations in front of key
Height restriction barriers are an essential feature of car parks for safety reasons, so compliance with height restrictions can be enforced. These barriers will keep tall vehicles away from areas typically made for standard-sized vehicles, hence saving you from possible damages and accidents in every shape or form. This blog
With Phase One of the Viadux development now complete, Salboy is continuing the momentum by advancing plans for Viadux Phase Two. Located between Manchester Central Conference Centre and Deansgate-Castlefield Metrolink Station, the development is poised to become a key addition to the city’s skyline and a vibrant destination for residents
MODERNISING operational policing requirements, work has commenced on the £55m redevelopment of Hertfordshire Constabulary headquarters, delivering a flexible and agile workspace for 600 operational staff. The new space, which involves the demolishment and consolidation of five buildings, will be set across 9,000 sqm and provide a new home for services
Proposals to transform the underused Eastpoint Business Park in Oxford into a new flagship life science campus have been approved for planning by Oxford City Council. Designed by Scott Brownrigg for Railpen, the scheme will bring an additional 200,000 sq ft much needed life science space to the Oxford-Cambridge Arc
WORKPLACE design and build specialist ODCreate has delivered a category A+ project, reimagining 7,000 sq ft of office space in central London. The offices – situated close to Leicester Square at 101 St Martin’s Lane – have been refurbished for landlord KGAL, an independent German investment and asset manager, with ODCreate repurposing the original fitout to make the space even more attractive for prospective tenants. The reimagining of the existing space has been undertaken with sustainability and adaptive reuse in mind, with an additional benefit of minimising marketing times of the offices for the landlord. Gavin Hawkins, managing director of ODCreate, said: “Market conditions within the office rental sector are changing all the time, and this project is a prime example of how existing spaces can be adapted and adjusted to those changing winds. “We are increasingly finding that landlords are pushing for category A and A+ fitouts that a tenant can let and be ready to move into straight away – especially in offices smaller than 10,000 sq ft. This kind of project is indicative of those market conditions, and the fitout was designed with this approach in mind. “It’s set in a really attractive central London location – which has been reflected in the quality of finish with the interiors – and is an excellent example of how ODCreate can deliver work that ticks the boxes for landlords and tenants alike.” Anaelle Dindorf, asset manager at KGAL Investment Management GmbH & Co KG, said: “We were pleased with the result of the works and had a very positive experience with the project team. The project was delivered without delay in the agreed timeframe.” ODCreate’s fit-out of the space is tenant-ready, with all elements of the design, dressing and fixtures designed to be used immediately by prospective tenants. ODCreate worked alongside Beadmans on the project, who acted as project manager and cost consultant. 101 St Martin’s Lane is one of several major projects recently completed by ODCreate, including a 30,000 sq ft new office for Howden Insurance in Milton Keynes. For more information, visit od-group.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Vattenfall IDNO launches a Grid Capacity Insights Platform, designed to streamline the grid connection for commercial and industrial developers in the UK Vattenfall IDNO had launched a Grid Capacity Insights Platform, a cutting-edge tool designed to simplify and accelerate the grid connection process for commercial and industrial developers across the UK. This platform provides developers with detailed data on power availability, grid constraints, and capacity at various voltage levels, enabling smarter site selection and reducing the risk of delays or failed grid applications. “With the UK on its journey to net-zero, we are aiming to remove as many obstacles as we can in the grid connection process,” says Stewart Dawson, Managing Director at Vattenfall IDNO. “Our Grid Capacity Insights Platform enables large-scale developers to navigate the complexities of grid connectivity, accelerating the electrification of energy intensive sectors to support the UK’s transition to sustainable energy.” Leading the transition to net-zero The platform is designed to benefit solar and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project developers, as well as large industrial energy consumers, by offering actionable insights on the most suitable points of connection. Vattenfall IDNO can also suggest practical cable routes and deliver comprehensive reports to streamline the application process. For major project developers, Vattenfall IDNO’s Grid Connections Consultancy service can even be delivered at no charge when Vattenfall adopts the network, helping to reduce the costs of successful grid applications. The Grid Capacity Insights Platform is part of Vattenfall’s broader consultancy service, which guides developers through the entire grid connection process, from feasibility assessments to project delivery. Vattenfall also supports the tendering of contestable works and manages network implementation, helping developers navigate the technical and administrative complexities of grid connectivity. To further ease the process, Vattenfall IDNO can even waive consultancy fees for developers who opt for network adoption, reducing the cost burden for those moving towards electrified infrastructure. This approach provides practical support for developers focused on integrating electric energy solutions into their projects. The platform provides a valuable tool for advancing the UK’s transition towards a decarbonised economy by providing clear data on power availability and grid capacity. It helps developers streamline site selection and grid application processes. The technology reduces the complexities of grid access, empowering developers to progress confidently with their projects and contribute to the nation’s net-zero goals. For further information or to explore the Grid Capacity Insights Platform, please visit the Vattenfall IDNO website. Additionally, Product Manager Bilgin Oralerkaya is available for interviews for journalists who would like to understand the platform in more detail. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A HIGHLY-ANITICPATED £9.5 million project to modernise Lichfield’s leisure centre provision has begun in Stychbrook Park, with complete construction partner Stepnell appointed to undertake the design and build by Lichfield District Council. Procured through the Procure Partnerships Framework, the work will deliver a brand-new centre in a bid to support the diverse health and wellbeing needs of Lichfield’s residents. This includes a 25 metre, six-lane pool, bathrooms, changing rooms, circulation spaces, a gym, fitness/dance studio, spin studio and lobby, as well as associated works including plant and stores. The new centre will replace the ageing Friary Grange Leisure Centre and will offer provisions to cater for all abilities. Stepnell will dedicate significant time on the project to social value delivery through continued engagement with the local community. As is standard practice for its range of projects within both the private and public sector, the Stepnell team will work closely with the local supply chain, utilising the expertise of the local area. To ensure this continued collaboration, dedicated monthly notice boards, newsletters, drop-in sessions and leaflet drops will all be undertaken across the duration of the project, which is set to complete in late 2025. Adrian Barnes, regional director at Stepnell said: “Following an in-depth procurement process, our appointment to Stychbrook Park is an exciting opportunity to collaborate with Lichfield District Council and add to the growing expertise within the leisure sector. “As with all our projects, our teams are committed to delivering a strong level of collaboration and communication with the local community and will actively seek engagement throughout the build process to ensure the end result is something the whole community can be proud of. Alongside Stepnell, the project team also includes architecture firm Box Architects, civil and structural engineers Adept, and building services design, BWB Consulting. Doug Pullen, leader at Lichfield District Council said: “I’m delighted that this long-awaited project is now underway, and we are delivering on our promise to deliver a brand-new leisure centre for Lichfield. This project has been shaped by the community since the very beginning – I’m confident it will serve our district well for many years to come.” Further works to construct a new car park and collection of 3G pitches is set to be undertaken in the near future. To find out more about Stepnell, visit www.stepnell.co.uk, or join in the conversation at @Stepnellltd Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Sheffield’s leading construction firm, Henry Boot Construction, has teamed up with several of its supply chain partners to deliver a pro bono office fit-out for local wellbeing charity, Golddigger Trust. Officially registered as a charity in 2007, Golddigger Trust has supported thousands of young people over the years, building positive wellbeing and empowering individuals to make affirmative, informed choices for themselves. In an age of increasing mental health challenges for young people, the demand for and importance of their services continues to grow. The Sheffield-based charity recently relocated their office from Psalter Lane to The Refinery at 197 Ecclesall Road. Previously home to Blend Kitchen, the move has seen them inherit an impressive kitchen and restaurant space downstairs. The team has decided to transform this space into a Wellbeing Café, which will offer a range of engaging wellbeing activities for the heart, body, mind and soul. The Wellbeing Café for young people launched in September and has welcomed over 100 people in that time. Its opening times are 3 to 6pm, Monday to Thursday. Golddigger Trust’s new office space is located on the floor above, and Henry Boot Construction has project managed the creation of a modern, comfortable and collaborative new workspace. As well as the office space, Henry Boot also co-ordinated the fit-out of Golddigger Trust’s new training and session spaces, including the creation of The Refine Studio, a dedicated space where young people can explore positive physical activities to support their wellbeing – such as yoga and pilates. Henry Boot chose to support the project to create significant social value for Sheffield’s young people and to invest in the legacy of the Heart of the City project completed in 2023. Henry Boot worked closely with a host of its trusted local supply chain to deliver the social value project, with Elecomm supporting with mechanical and electrical services, Barn Oak with joinery, and Global with drywall and ceiling work. Banner Plant, part of the wider Henry Boot group, donated many of the required tools free-of-charge, and C+A Design provided its architectural services pro bono, too. Tony Shaw, Managing Director from Henry Boot Construction, said: “As a business deeply rooted in Sheffield, we are always eager to give back to the city and its communities. Golddigger Trust is a remarkable organisation, supporting thousands of young people, and we are thrilled to have played a part in bringing everyone together to create an incredible new office space for them. This would not have been possible without the support of our trusted local partners and a financial donation from the Henry Boot Charity Committee– it was truly a team effort. “We look forward to continuing to build our relationship with Golddigger Trust, including welcoming them into our own office to provide some wellbeing sessions for our young employees.” Beth Stout, Chief Executive at Golddigger Trust, said: “When we set out to open The Refinery, I remember saying that we could only do it by doing it together – that it would take Sheffield stepping up to show our city’s young people that their wellbeing matters to us, and we have been overwhelmed by how Henry Boot and partners have stepped up to make this dream a reality. “We couldn’t have done it without these amazing people and their hard work will have a huge impact on the lives of thousands of young people. We are so grateful for these deeply skilled and committed people who have delivered a brilliant fit out and enabled us to open The Refinery as a beacon for young people’s wellbeing, shining out across the city to show young people that they matter. “The work that’s been achieved so far is incredible – getting us ready to help support thousands of young people across the city. But we’re not quite there yet. We’re still on the lookout for support from generous local businesses to help us finish off the kitchens and flooring. If anyone can help us with this final leg of our refurbishment journey, we’d love to hear from you.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
NBS and CPI set to improve the quality and standard of product information within the construction industry Yesterday, NBS, a leading specification and construction product platform for the construction industry, announces its partnership with CPI Ltd, the independently governed, not-for-profit organisation responsible for the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI). The collaboration with CPI aims to raise standards in product information and marketing across the construction industry and drive positive culture change. Ultimately, it supports the Code in its mission to move the industry to a place where product information is clear, accurate, accessible, up-to-date and unambiguous. The partnership between NBS and CPI will help to bring clearer, unambiguous product information and marketing to the fingertips of architects and designers working on construction projects. It will see NBS integrate new functionality into its platform to help specifiers easily identify and select products and systems that have been assessed to conform with the CCPI and are registered with CCPI. NBS Source users can now filter listings to show only products and systems with CCPI assessment, enabling them to select from options which are conforming with the CCPI. Commenting on the partnership, Dr Stephen Hamil, Innovation Director, NBS, said “At NBS our mission is to use the power of connected data to add value and enable a safe, efficient, high-quality construction sector. We’re always looking to improve the way information is delivered to end-users, helping to ensure that specifiers can be confident in the integrity of crucial product data. “Partnering with CPI, we’re allowing specifiers to have better access to clear, reliable, and assessed product information, so they can be more confident in design decisions.” Amanda Long, Chief Executive of CPI, said “At CPI, we firmly believe that improving standards across the construction industry requires a collaborative effort. Partnering with NBS is the first of many such collaborations we would like to develop to engage the industry in every corner. Working with NBS will help us to reach out and provide specifiers with greater confidence in the product information and marketing that they need to make informed choices, reducing risk throughout the supply chain. By working together, we can drive the culture change urgently required across the sector in relation to prioritising product information and marketing that conforms with the CCPI.” Additionally, NBS has built a custom area within the NBS Source platform, dedicated exclusively to showcasing systems, and products that are registered with the CCPI and the that have achieved CCPI assessment. The CPI assessment process includes critical mechanisms, such as Leadership and Culture assessment and ongoing CPI Registration obligations for the company responsible for the product information. These do not exist elsewhere in the construction sector. The CCPI and its third-party assessment process provide valuable review and ongoing engagement to help users and specifiers have more confidence that they are working with product information and marketing that is conforming with the CCPI and that the manufacturers responsible are committed to continually updating and improving their product information and marketing. Nigel Blacklock, Technical Director at manufacturer Bauder, who is registered with the CCPI and has been awarded the CCPI Assessed Mark for its flat roof waterproofing systems, said “Increasingly we’ve seen specifiers request third-party assessment of the product information and marketing associated with our products. The CCPI mark is a mark of trust and, crucially, having a digitally-supplied format via NBS Source makes it even easier for specifiers to spot our assessed systems and specify with greater confidence.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The National Home Decarbonisation Group, in partnership with Futurebuild and Innovate UK, has launched its Big Retrofit Challenge, a bold new competition aimed at unearthing game-changing solutions in home decarbonisation. The Big Retrofit Challenge offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and companies to showcase their innovations in front of key industry players and get their ideas to the market. The innovations that come through the competition should aim to either directly address central challenges to the sector or improve wider processes for the delivery of projects that help consumers live in healthier homes, tackling issues such as exposure to damp and mould and alleviating fuel poverty. The judges are looking for innovations that go beyond just products, including new systems, approaches, solutions, and processes that contribute to creating healthier homes. Entries are open to UK-registered businesses that have an annual turnover of £15 million or less, with priority being given to less established organisations. The submitted solutions must be suitable for retrofitting or renovating existing homes or non-residential properties. While solutions designed for new builds are also welcome, they must demonstrate applicability to retrofit projects as well. Six shortlisted winners will have the chance to pitch their solutions on stage at Futurebuild’s National Retrofit Conference, and attend a networking morning to showcase their innovation to NHDG members with each winner having allocated slots to network directly with its members. Winners will also be given the exciting opportunity to discuss with NHDG members the potential of piloting their technology on a live decarbonisation scheme, accelerating their path to market and turning ideas into reality. It offers shortlisted winners a unique opportunity to actively work with the private sector to deliver retrofit. Paul Rogers, National Decarbonisation Manager at CLC Group, and member of the National Home Decarbonisation Group who are managing The Big Retrofit Challenge on behalf of the team, said: “By collaborating on the Big Retrofit Challenge, we are supporting the discovery and implementation of solutions that address the urgent need for greener, healthier homes. This competition will help unlock innovations that reduce fuel poverty, improve living conditions, and advance the UK’s decarbonisation agenda.” Mat Colmer from Innovate UK, and Senior Innovation Lead for Construction and Net Zero Heat at UK Research and Innovation, also commented on the competition: “Innovation is key to solving the complex challenges we face in home decarbonisation. The Big Retrofit Challenge provides a crucial opportunity for cutting-edge solutions to be tested and scaled, ultimately helping the UK meet its net zero targets while improving the quality of housing for consumers.” Martin Hurn, Event Director at Futurebuild, said: “The Big Retrofit Challenge is about turning bold ideas into impactful solutions. We are excited to partner with Innovate UK and the National Home Decarbonisation Group to create a powerful platform where innovators can showcase their game-changing technologies that will accelerate the decabonisation of homes across the UK.” The Big Retrofit Challenge is an inspiring step towards transforming the UK’s housing sector and achieving net zero goals. By fostering bold innovation and collaboration, the competition aims to deliver real-world solutions that will make an impact on the environment and communities across the country. Enter now for your chance to make a real impact. Further criteria and guidelines are found on the application form. The competition will close at 11am on Thursday 28th November 2024. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Height restriction barriers are an essential feature of car parks for safety reasons, so compliance with height restrictions can be enforced. These barriers will keep tall vehicles away from areas typically made for standard-sized vehicles, hence saving you from possible damages and accidents in every shape or form. This blog will go into detail on the reasons why these barriers are important, their advantages, and critical elements to keep in mind when deploying them efficiently. Advantage of Height Restrictions for Car Parks Enhancing Safety The most common use for height restriction barriers is safety, especially within car parks. Barriers that contain access to oversized vehicles help reduce the costs of damage control, such as crushed ceilings, pierced beams, and other structural elements. This is easier said than done; otherwise, tall vehicles running into low-clearance areas risk accidents that result in expensive damages to be repaired and potentially dangerous situations for other users. As a result, height restrictions offer preventative measures to protect the tenants and property. Smooth Traffic Flow Height restriction barriers mean efficient traffic flow. If larger, unauthorized vehicles try to move within regular-sized vehicles designed for parking spaces, it can become impossible. These disruptions can be prevented from occurring with height barriers, which can help ensure a smooth passage of traffic and decrease any risks of traffic jams or crashes happening on site. This, in turn, improves the overall user experience, facilitating easy access to and from car parks. Compliance with Regulations Compliance is everything for car park operators. Certain areas have overtly stated regulations about vehicle height. Height restriction barriers are used to ensure the operator meets these legal obligations, avoiding financial penalties and legal complications. The barriers are updated on an ongoing basis, which displays continuous safety and regulatory compliance. Versatility in Design Everyone has a different feel, and various height restriction barriers are available to suit your requirements, design style, and budget. Some of these are fixed and will permanently solve any exposure problem, while others are adjustable to suit your different needs. The Junker sliding barriers can also be tailored to fit the car park’s design concept, so they become part of a harmonious whole. Their flexibility permits operators to select the best barrier for their surroundings. Durability and Maintenance The durability of height restriction barriers is a significant concern. Heavy-duty materials like steel or aluminum also speak to longevity and will hold up against the elements even if you use your seat often. But with routine maintenance, such as checking for and repairing any wear and tear or repainting, you can significantly increase the life of your barrier. Improved strength and more permanent barriers are justified not only by the costs but also by the fact that they may be necessary to operate continuously. Signage and Visibility Signage and visibility are very important for height restriction barriers. Not only are the signs clearly readable and in a good location, but they also give drivers enough ample warning to not end up changing their minds at last, possibly creating potential accidents. Light or reflective tip material can make a big difference in terms of visibility, especially during early mornings and evenings. Signage is necessary so that drivers know about restrictions in advance and can stay safe and not get a ticket. Implementation Considerations When deploying height restriction barriers for car parks, several factors must be considered to balance these trade-offs. First, examining the car park and its average vehicle height can provide insight into the appropriate limit. Additionally, consulting with car park designers and structural engineers can help determine the most effective locations for the barriers. Involving stakeholders, such as end-users and local agencies, in the design process can lead to more user-friendly solutions that gain wider acceptance. Conclusion Having height restriction barriers in place is crucial to keep people safe, to ensure that traffic flows freely, and to ensure overall compliance. Not only can they be designed to meet a variety of applications, but their durability and necessity for the use of signage also make them invaluable for efficient car park management. By taking into account variables such as the average height of vehicles, referring to experts, and keeping the environment in mind, car park administrators can introduce barriers that will ensure a safer and more usable space for everyone.
With Phase One of the Viadux development now complete, Salboy is continuing the momentum by advancing plans for Viadux Phase Two. Located between Manchester Central Conference Centre and Deansgate-Castlefield Metrolink Station, the development is poised to become a key addition to the city’s skyline and a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike. In November last year, Salboy and Domis introduced landmark proposals for a second phase of development on this site as part of a public consultation. Since submitting a planning application in April, plans for Viadux Phase Two have continued to develop and now include a hotel operated by an exciting global brand within the 76-storey building, with associated updates to the design, including a new combined residential and hotel entrance on Albion Street in place of the previously proposed retail unit. The revised design, created by architect SimpsonHaugh, will help ensure the area becomes a vibrant destination for both residents and visitors, with a public bar at ground level bringing more life to the Grade II Listed Viaduct and Great Bridgewater Street. There will also be a restaurant, available for reservations. The landscape design, led by Planit, will enhance Albion Street and Great Bridgewater Street by featuring green spaces and seating to create a welcoming public realm. The plans have also been updated to retain more of the historic Grade II Listed bridge over Great Bridgewater Street, preserving an important element of Manchester’s architectural heritage. Salboy remains committed to providing a range of housing options with the delivery of 133 affordable homes being unaffected by the revised proposals, ensuring that the city’s housing needs are addressed. Simon Ismail, Managing Director & Co-founder at Salboy, said: “With Phase One of Viadux now completed, we’re excited to carry this momentum into Phase Two. Our vision is to create a destination where people can live, visit and enjoy, combining high-quality homes, amenities and vibrant public spaces. “The addition of the hotel will not only elevate the development but also support Manchester’s growing tourism and visitor economy. This mixed-use development will be easily accessible by public transport and ensure that the benefits of the development extend across the city, contributing to Manchester’s ongoing growth and transformation.” Salboy are excited to make the community aware of the revised proposals and are keen to hear any feedback and comments before submitting the revised details. For more details on the revised proposals and to share your thoughts, visit www.viadux2-consultation.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
MODERNISING operational policing requirements, work has commenced on the £55m redevelopment of Hertfordshire Constabulary headquarters, delivering a flexible and agile workspace for 600 operational staff. The new space, which involves the demolishment and consolidation of five buildings, will be set across 9,000 sqm and provide a new home for services and departments including the major crime unit, victim services and dog unit, along with the senior leadership team and operational support staff. Targeting BREEAM Excellent for ultra-high sustainability standards, the building is also set to include heat recovery units, solar panels, and sustainable drainage systems, while the new building will also respond to modern working requirements by prioritising hot desking and wellbeing initiatives in its design. Multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard, is behind the scheme, operating via Perfect Circle, in a technical advisory role from RIBA Stage 3 under the SCAPE Consultancy framework. The firm is working closely with Hertfordshire Constabulary and contractor Willmott Dixon to bring the project to fruition. Andy Robinson, director at Pick Everard, said: “This project recognises Pick Everard’s commitment to supporting the UK’s blue light sectors, providing industry-leading expertise that enables police, healthcare, and other emergency services to support its staff and the surrounding community effectively. “Policing is a job unlike any other, and with it comes its own unique considerations in design. Key to this is the thorough stakeholder management programme established on the project, which will result in a flexible workspace that responds to current need while being scalable for the future. “Working closely with Hertfordshire Constabulary and Willmott Dixon, we’re looking forward to the new space delivering a lasting legacy for police services across Welwyn Garden City.” As well as helping reduce the current Stanborough estate’s long-term running costs, the new building is also targeting a WELL Platinum Certification, a major benchmark for advancing health and wellbeing within a single building. Stewart Brundell, managing director at Willmott Dixon in North London and Northern Homes Counties, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Hertfordshire Constabulary to deliver its new headquarters. As a proud Hertfordshire-based company, it is fantastic to be starting on site to provide a new facility for our county’s police force. “This project follows on from our successful delivery of the Bedfordshire Police’s new custody suite. The new HQ will provide Hertfordshire Constabulary’s people with a sustainable, flexible working environment which can be utilised for police and community groups as well.” Victoria Brambini, chief executive at Perfect Circle, said: “This project is a prime example of where Perfect Circle can add real value to the public sector. Commissioning our industry-leading consultancy experts at Pick Everard, we will provide the technical expertise for the redevelopment of the headquarters of Hertfordshire Constabulary, alongside ensuring the building will meet exceptional sustainability targets. “I’m delighted the project will be delivered through both SCAPE’s Consultancy and Construction frameworks, demonstrating that as SCAPE partners, we can provide all that is needed to deliver projects from start to finish.” Mark Robinson, group chief executive at the SCAPE group, added: “With sustainability in mind, the redevelopment of the headquarters of Hertfordshire Constabulary will provide a much-improved flexible work environment for the county’s police force. “This is a significant project for us as through the SCAPE consultancy framework, SCAPE and Perfect Circle will play an integral role in supplying consultancy services and expert advisory solutions in relation to the complexities of the project. SCAPE is also working in close collaboration with Willmott Dixon through the SCAPE Construction Framework, to deliver efficiency and cost savings throughout the project.” Designed by Vincent & Gorbing Architects, work will complete in summer 2026 on the new headquarters. For more information on Pick Everard and the services it provides, visit: www.pickeverard.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Proposals to transform the underused Eastpoint Business Park in Oxford into a new flagship life science campus have been approved for planning by Oxford City Council. Designed by Scott Brownrigg for Railpen, the scheme will bring an additional 200,000 sq ft much needed life science space to the Oxford-Cambridge Arc and provide a focal point for interaction with STEM and educational outreach within the local community. The site for the new life science campus is located adjacent to The Oxford Academy, five miles southeast of Oxford city centre in the district of Littlemore. Three four-storey laboratory buildings and a single storey amenity building are carefully positioned to buffer noise and pollution from the A road to the North, define a new public space, and enhance permeability across the site. Each fully serviced building is designed to suit a range of tenants and provide flexibility in occupancy, with 55% CL2 laboratory and 45% office space to support cutting-edge research and collaboration. A contextual material palette with distinctive horizontal banding and vertical flues references Oxford’s history while ensuring comfortable and naturally lit spaces within and views out. An emphasis on facilitating safe pedestrianised movement, activating ground floor frontages, and provision of high- quality public amenities supports the creation of an inclusive environment that contributes positively to the social, ecological, and educational fabric of Littlemore. A ‘Learning Lab’ will provide local students with access to state-of-the- art facilities and interactions with professionals in the field, while a publicly accessible café, social hub and green space will create a communal focus at the heart of the site. The scheme targets BREEAM ‘Outstanding’, WELL, Wired and Smart Platinum and Cycle Score Platinum with features such as the ‘Travel & Energy hub’ to promote sustainable travel and pocket parks with integrated planting to enhance user wellbeing. A fabric first approach combined with the latest building technology, renewable energy, and biodiverse balconies and roofscapes will reduce embodied and operational carbon and enhance biodiversity on site. Ed Hayden, Director and Head of Life Sciences at Scott Brownrigg said: “Securing planning approval for the Eastpoint Life Science Campus is a significant milestone in our vision to create world-class research environments. This project not only addresses the growing demand for life science space in the Oxford-Cambridge Arc, but also contributes to the community with its focus on education, sustainability, and wellbeing. We’re excited to see how this campus will foster innovation and bring global talent to Oxford.” The new Eastpoint life science campus development is a cutting-edge facility designed to attract to industry leading talent from around the world. With a flexible, community focused design and commitment to sustainability, the new campus is poised to become a leader in life sciences in the Oxford market. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals