Chartway Partnerships Group has completed the handover of 400 new homes at Whitstable Heights to the Hyde Group, creating a new community for Whitstable. Located off the Thanet Way, the scheme has been delivered through the long-standing partnership between Chartway and Hyde. It provides a mix of one, two, three
The University of Southampton Science Park marked a major construction milestone on 14 April with the topping out of Infinity Labs, a landmark development set to redefine innovation space in the Central South economy. Designed by Scott Brownrigg, the new multi‑tenancy building will deliver 3,400 sqm of much‑needed laboratory accommodation
Linear Living has completed work on its £34M Trafford Gardens development, with the final 116 homes delivered, bringing the total to 149 in Old Trafford. The developer finished the second phase of work on the Talbot Road scheme last month after a two-year construction process. The phase two 116 apartments
Costain and A E Yates bring on board Hyperion Robotics to deliver 90 3D printed concrete sleepers, providing efficiency, sustainability and safety benefits Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, and A E Yates, the civil and structural engineering delivery specialist, have brought on board Hyperion Robotics to deliver low-carbon concrete sleepers
As Europe settles into 2026, the logistics and industrial real estate landscape is undergoing a decisive shift. Occupiers facing supply chain recalibration, cost inflation and labour market constraints, are sharpening their logistics requirements. As Europe settles into 2026, the logistics and industrial real estate landscape is undergoing a decisive shift.
Three-storey building will enhance opportunities in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. Willmott Dixon has been appointed by the Department for Education (DfE), on behalf of The Mosslands School in Wallasey, to deliver a £61m programme of works to create a new, state-of-the-art secondary school. Designed by Ellis Williams Architects,
Planning permission has been granted for a new, 77-bed development in Coalville, specifically designed for over-55s, representing a major step forward in the town’s masterplan. Multi-disciplinary design practice, rg+p Ltd has secured planning consent for the redevelopment of land next to Baker Street in the North Leicestershire town. Working with
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has announced the launch of the Coalition for Life Cycle Emissions Alignment and Reporting (CLEAR);a global initiative designed to harmonise the measurement and reporting of whole-life carbon emissions across the global built environment. CLEAR is being launched at the Sustainable Buildings and Construction
PUBLIC sector procurement leaders YPO and Pagabo have formed a 10-year strategic delivery partnership that will see resources, reputation and expertise combined to establish a new benchmark for construction procurement. YPO is one of the UK’s largest public sector buying organisations, while Pagabo is the UK’s leading digital procurement specialist that manages a suite of frameworks across the construction, infrastructure, development and consultancy sectors. This long-term initiative brings together the scale and trust of YPO with the delivery expertise of Pagabo, to
Glenigan Review reveals choked activity as international conflict strangles pipeline Today, Glenigan | A Hubexo Company (Glenigan), one of the construction industry’s leading insight and intelligence experts, releases the April 2026 edition of its Construction Review. The Review focuses on the three months to the end of March 2026, covering
Chartway Partnerships Group has completed the handover of 400 new homes at Whitstable Heights to the Hyde Group, creating a new community for Whitstable. Located off the Thanet Way, the scheme has been delivered through the long-standing partnership between Chartway and Hyde. It provides a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom homes for outright sale, shared ownership, affordable rent and social rent. The development also delivers affordable and social rented homes beyond Section 106 requirements, made possible through Hyde’s strategic relationship with Homes England and Canterbury City Council. Alongside the new homes, the development includes around 20 hectares of public open space, featuring meadow planting, walking routes, play areas, a multi-use games area, a miniature football pitch and community allotments. Environmental improvements have been a key part of the project, with more than 5,800 trees planted across the site, alongside an extension to Duncan Down. This has created a lasting village green, which has been handed over to Canterbury City Council for long-term stewardship as community open space, in partnership with the Friends of Duncan Down. Social value has been embedded throughout the construction of Whitstable Heights. Chartway supported improvements to Whitstable’s Umbrella Centre community facility, carrying out electrical upgrades and internal refurbishment works. By prioritising local supply chains for goods, trades and services, as well as providing training opportunities for subcontractors on site and employing five apprentices, the project has generated more than £2.3 million in value for the local economy. Construction began in 2021 and the development has gradually taken shape over the past five years as residents have moved in and the neighbourhood has grown. Hannah, a new resident who moved to Whitstable Heights through the shared ownership programme, said: “Moving here was a big decision, especially with three children, but it’s honestly the best thing we’ve ever done. Shared ownership has given us real security and a proper foundation as a family. The children have so much more freedom, and we’re just happier, we love it here and can really see this as our forever home.” She added: “There’s such a strong sense of community here, everyone is so friendly and looks out for each other. The children have made friends so quickly and are always out playing together, and things like the allotments have really brought people together. It doesn’t feel like a big development at all, it feels like a proper neighbourhood, and that’s really special.” Graham Chivers, Group Chief Executive Officer at Chartway Partnerships Group, said: “Whitstable Heights has grown into a fantastic new neighbourhood and it’s incredibly rewarding to see the development now complete with residents settled into their homes.” As well as providing a wide range of homes, the scheme has created generous green spaces and facilities that will support the community for years to come. I’m hugely proud of the team who have worked so hard to bring this project to life.” Jaime Buckley, Group Development Director at Hyde, said: “Whitstable Heights has delivered much-needed homes for local people in an area where housing demand continues to grow. Developments like this play an important role in helping more people access high-quality, well-designed homes. Working alongside Chartway, we’ve been able to bring forward a scheme that provides a range of housing opportunities while contributing to the long-term growth of the local area.” With the final homes now complete, Whitstable Heights stands as an outstanding example of how partnership working can deliver well-designed homes alongside green space and community infrastructure. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The University of Southampton Science Park marked a major construction milestone on 14 April with the topping out of Infinity Labs, a landmark development set to redefine innovation space in the Central South economy. Designed by Scott Brownrigg, the new multi‑tenancy building will deliver 3,400 sqm of much‑needed laboratory accommodation at the Science Park’s entrance. The traditional topping‑out ceremony celebrated the completion of Infinity Labs’ distinctive curved steel frame, designed to symbolise the flow of ideas and collaboration. The building will also serve as a gateway for future development across the Science Park. The event brought together over fifty key stakeholders from across the region including representatives from local council, businesses, academia, project team and supply chain partners. A keynote speech was delivered by Cllr Nick Adams-King, Leader of Hampshire County Council. A highlight of the ceremony was the symbolic tightening of a bolt on the roof of the building with a golden spanner undertaken by Cllr Nick Adams-King, Leader of Hampshire County Council. The moment represented the completion of the building’s highest structural point and served as a powerful acknowledgement of the collaboration and dedication demonstrated by all involved. Guests were also invited to sign the structure’s uppermost steel beam. CEO of Southampton Science Park, Dr Robin Chave, said, “Southampton Science Park is the only commercial space in the Central South region that is dedicated to the needs of science and technology businesses. Our multi-million-pound investment in Infinity Labs boosts our offering further by providing the vital laboratory space needed to equip the South-Central economy for growth and enterprise through scientific discovery. Today, we reached a major milestone in our work to achieve this goal. On behalf of the Science Park team, I thank everyone involved in the project so far and those who are yet to work on it this year. This building design is ingenious, offering technically optimised space for a healthy, productive and sustainably focused working environment, strategically located in an entrepreneurial setting geared up for breakthrough performance. We cannot wait to welcome our first residents to Infinity Labs!” Cllr Nick Adams-King, Leader of Hampshire County Council, was keynote speaker at the event. He said, “This is a major milestone in the development of the Infinity Labs at Southampton Science Park. Once finished, they will enhance the Science Park’s already significant innovation offer by providing purpose-built places especially designed to support the complex, evolving needs of science, technology and research and design organisations. This is a brilliant addition to the local economic eco-system, helping to retain Hampshire and the Solent’s place as a leading player in the Country’s economy.” Managing Director of main contractor, Amiri Construction, Jon Daines, commented, “This milestone is a testament to the hard work and commitment of everyone on the project. Reaching this stage safely and successfully reflects the strength of our partnership and the shared ambition to deliver a high-quality development. Today’s ceremony also provided an opportunity to thank the workforce and reflect on the journey so far, while looking ahead to the next phase of the build, including the cladding and internal works. With the structure now complete, Infinity Labs continues to progress on programme, maintaining strong momentum towards its anticipated completion in later in the year.’’ Amy Bourne, Associate at Scott Brownrigg said: “What was once a vision on paper is now a tangible gateway presence. As the building emerges from the landscape and curves around the approach road, it truly invites you into the Park. A strong connection to nature was a key part of the design and, as the façade progresses, this is now evident in the views of the beautiful surroundings captured within the offices and laboratories. We are excited to see the rest of the building take shape over this year.” Infinity Labs is designed to meet the evolving needs of science, technology and R&D‑led businesses, combining high‑specification laboratory, office and collaborative space within a single, visually striking facility. Named to reflect the limitless potential of successful technology businesses, the flagship building will further enhance the offer of one of the UK’s top three science parks. Construction of Infinity Labs is on target to complete at the end of 2026. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Linear Living has completed work on its £34M Trafford Gardens development, with the final 116 homes delivered, bringing the total to 149 in Old Trafford. The developer finished the second phase of work on the Talbot Road scheme last month after a two-year construction process. The phase two 116 apartments are spread across 13 storeys. These include 65 one-bedroom, 48 two-bedroom, and 3 three-bedroom properties. The development features several communal areas. These include a rooftop garden and a private courtyard. The homes have all been sold off-plan to a mixture of investors and owner-occupiers. Linear Design & Construct, an associated company of Linear Living, began the scheme in January 2024. The project was completed in two phases. Phase one was delivered in September 2025. The initial phase delivered 33 homes for affordable housing, which were all purchased by not-for-profit Salford-based housing association, Irwell Valley Homes. The organisation currently lets them on a rent-to-buy basis. Trafford Gardens falls within the Trafford Civic Quarter masterplan, which aims to revitalise the area surrounding Old Trafford Cricket Ground and create a thriving residential community. The development is situated just 300m from both Old Trafford and Trafford Bar Metrolink stops. Old Trafford Football Stadium and Old Trafford Cricket Ground are walkable in ten minutes. The project team for Trafford Gardens included contractor Linear Design & Construct and Peak Properties, which acted as the advisor and agent for the sale. Other stakeholders included the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Maslow Capital, with the scheme initially designed by Tim Groom Architects before being taken over by JDA Architects. Stephen Holmes, CEO of Linear Living, said: “The Trafford Gardens development is a culmination of hard work, resilience and determination by the entire project team. It’s fantastic to unveil these homes, which set the standard for new residential communities across Old Trafford. “Selling the entire development off-plan demonstrates the desirability of the area and the exceptional quality of the properties. The scheme boasts a prime location for owner-occupiers and renters, largely thanks to its seamless connectivity to Manchester city centre. “We’re confident the Trafford Gardens residents will breathe new life into the area, helping to boost wider regeneration efforts.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Costain and A E Yates bring on board Hyperion Robotics to deliver 90 3D printed concrete sleepers, providing efficiency, sustainability and safety benefits Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, and A E Yates, the civil and structural engineering delivery specialist, have brought on board Hyperion Robotics to deliver low-carbon concrete sleepers for a landmark East Coast Cluster project on Teesside. Northern Endurance Partnership’s (NEP) onshore CO2 gathering system will provide the CO2 transportation and storage infrastructure for Teesside-based carbon capture projects. Costain is the delivery partner to NEP with A E Yates providing civil engineering services. Costain and A E Yates will work with Hyperion to produce approximately 90 high-strength concrete pipe support bases, or sleepers, along 1.3km of onshore CO2 pipelines across Teesside using its advanced robotic manufacturing and digital technology. Through innovative robotic 3D printing, Hyperion’s technology eliminates formwork and enables precise, repeatable production of the sleepers. This approach, when compared to traditional precast solutions, will require less soil excavation, reduce concrete and steel use by 40% and carbon emissions by up to 50%. The engineering-led solution is up to ten times stronger than traditional structures despite being up to 60% lighter thanks to a thin, reinforced base design. This will enable faster and safer installation of the sleepers, which will also be manufactured offsite to reduce on-site labour and plant. Hyperion will oversee its role in the project from Forge I, its new UK manufacturing facility near Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire. Mark Howard, Programme Director at Costain, said: “Our supply chain serves as a key enabler for innovation, ensuring that we continue to deliver predictable, best-in-class solutions across our projects. Hyperion’s 3D printing solution will provide a myriad of efficiency, sustainability and safety benefits for this important project, while at the same time support economic growth and prosperity across Teesside. “We’re looking forward to collaborating with its team and working together with our other local supply chain partners as we continue to make strong progress in delivering a decarbonisation system that will be critical for creating a sustainable future for the UK.” Sven Till, Chief Executive Officer at A E Yates, said: “As a business, innovation and sustainability are fundamental to how we deliver for our customers, and having the opportunity to bring this innovative solution to Teesside for NEP, in collaboration with Costain and Hyperion, demonstrates this. “We hope that this is the first of many innovative solutions we are able to provide to Northern Endurance Partnership as we deliver the wider OSBL civil engineering works.” Fernando De los Rios, CEO at Hyperion Robotics, said: “Working alongside Costain, A E Yates and the Northern Endurance Partnership on this project shows what is possible when forward-thinking organisations come together to deliver infrastructure in a different way. By combining engineering expertise, digital design and automated manufacturing, we can reduce material use and carbon emissions while meeting the highest standards of quality, performance and code compliance. “This is more than a single project milestone. It is a practical example of how the UK can build critical infrastructure faster, more efficiently and with a lower carbon footprint by bringing together strong delivery partners, advanced technology and local manufacturing capability.” Rich Denny, Managing Director at Northern Endurance Partnership, said: “By working with Costain and Hyperion Robotics to harness advanced manufacturing techniques, we are not only reducing the carbon footprint of construction itself but also supporting the development of a resilient UK supply chain. This kind of collaboration is critical to delivering a world‑class CCS network that will help decarbonise industry, protect jobs and drive long‑term economic growth in the region.” Costain is also the delivery partner for Net Zero Teesside Power (NZT Power), which aims to be the world’s first gas-fired power station with carbon capture and storage. To date, approximately 200 people from Costain are delivering and managing the engineering, procurement and construction (EPCm) elements of the NZT NEP OSBL project, in addition to approximately 100 designers and engineers based in Manchester. Of the subcontractor contracts awarded to date, 90% are with UK-based suppliers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As Europe settles into 2026, the logistics and industrial real estate landscape is undergoing a decisive shift. Occupiers facing supply chain recalibration, cost inflation and labour market constraints, are sharpening their logistics requirements. As Europe settles into 2026, the logistics and industrial real estate landscape is undergoing a decisive shift. Occupiers facing supply‑chain recalibration, cost inflation and labour market constraints, are sharpening their logistics requirements. Insights from the December 2025 Affinius Capital Sponsor Report illustrate how occupier preferences are evolving and what this means for big box developers. Its findings reveal much about occupier sentiment and have enabled Mountpark to pinpoint the Top Five Occupier Trends defining logistics in 2026: 1. Next generation design Affinius’ findings reveal occupiers continue to prioritise modern, high‑specification logistics facilities, widening the gap between demand for grade A space and the obsolescence of older stock. The report highlights that tenant preferences strongly favour modern, quality space, especially as older, functionally outdated buildings no longer support operational needs. This trend reflects: For Mountpark, which is already delivering next‑generation design, this reinforces the importance of continuing to lead on high-quality, future-proofed assets. One strong example is Mountpark Ferrybridge in Yorkshire, a former power-generation site now transforming into a next-generation logistics campus, and one that puts sustainable innovation at its core, targeting BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ and EPC A+ ratings. The first unit was pre-let to Warburtons, demonstrating just how strong the demand is for Grade A properties. 2. Fight to quality While demand remains resilient, new supply is tightening sharply. European logistics completions are projected to decline by a staggering 40% from 2022 to 2026, driven by elevated borrowing costs and construction inflation that is reducing the feasibility of projects. This creates conditions where occupiers will increasingly compete for the best‑located, best‑specified space and where developers bold enough to continue delivering logistics assets will gain market advantage. Build-to-suit may also become more attractive to occupiers struggling to speculatively completed properties. At Mountpark, we want every business to have the choice to occupy or build a facility that genuinely fits its future. In an environment defined by scarcity, our goal is to deliver certainty, quality and room to grow. View our portfolio of live projects across Europe here. 3. ESG and Power Requirements Across Europe, occupiers are raising expectations around sustainability, energy performance, and regulatory compliance. The Affinius report notes that Europe’s regulatory environment places a strong focus on sustainability, data security and privacy, particularly in sectors such as data centres. Key ESG requirements include: Occupiers do not simply favour ESG‑aligned buildings they increasingly avoid non-compliant stock, accelerating the obsolescence of older facilities. Build‑to‑suit delivery is an increasingly powerful tool in this environment, enabling occupiers to align property specifications precisely with their operational priorities, ensuring they fully reflect and support ESG commitments. And it’s not just data centres where power requirements are rising. Occupiers across logistics, manufacturing and 3PL operations are requiring greater grid capacity to support their increased use of automation, robotics and AI‑enabled systems. Occupiers in 2026 will be seeking locations with the ability to scale energy use over time. Developers who can deliver these power‑robust sites will win disproportionate market share. Our focus at Mountpark for 2026 is therefore on identifying and accelerating sites with excellent power requirements while prioritising locations with undersupply, ensuring occupiers can secure future‑ready facilities even as market competition intensifies. 4. Location Strategy Affinius’ report emphasises the regionalisation of higher‑value manufacturing, growth in ecommerce and on/near‑shoring initiatives as key forces shaping logistics demand. Occupiers are reassessing their network footprints to prioritise proximity to labour pools, access to multimodal transport infrastructure and locations supporting resilient, diversified supply chains. With market conditions fluid and supply chains still adapting, occupiers also want flexible buildings that allow them to upscale or relocate quickly. The report shows latent demand delayed by macro uncertainty, with leasing momentum expected to rebound once conditions stabilise. Mountpark’s strategic landbank and presence across major European hubs positions it strongly to support occupiers recalibrating their networks. In the UK, Mountpark Hinckley is an excellent example, situated in the heart of the Golden Triangle, the UK’s premier logistics location, with unrivalled connectivity to national transport routes and major parcel hubs. The scheme has the ability to deliver up to 1.46 million sq ft of space, with Unit 1 (492,000 sq ft) already pre-let and Units 2 and 3 capable of delivery in Q2 2027, providing the certainty and speed to market that today’s occupiers increasingly demand. 5. Cost Predictability and Operational Efficiency Rising costs including energy, labour and transport are pushing occupiers to focus on buildings that make operations cheaper and more efficient. Key requirements include: Given stabilising valuations and easing borrowing costs highlighted in the Affinius report, occupiers may increasingly adopt long-term strategic leases to lock in the operational efficiencies. The leasing of all seven units at Mountpark Baldonnell in Ireland, prior to practical completion, reflects our ability to deliver complex, high-value developments that align with occupiers’ long term strategies. These five trends underline the decisive shifts defining logistics in 2026. Today’s savvy occupiers understand precisely what is required to support performance, resilience and long‑term growth and they are increasingly unwilling to compromise. Mountpark’s dedication to best‑in‑class design, forward‑thinking innovation and strategic development across Europe ensures we remain ideally positioned to meet and exceed the expectations of the modern occupier. Take an even deeper dive by viewing our live portfolio of projects across Europe offering a range of both speculative and build-to-suit opportunities. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Three-storey building will enhance opportunities in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. Willmott Dixon has been appointed by the Department for Education (DfE), on behalf of The Mosslands School in Wallasey, to deliver a £61m programme of works to create a new, state-of-the-art secondary school. Designed by Ellis Williams Architects, the 19-acre redevelopment will accommodate 1,500 pupils, providing modern and flexible learning environments. The new three-storey building will support high-quality education and enhanced opportunities in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. Once complete, the existing school buildings will be demolished. The redevelopment will also include improved external facilities, featuring two sports halls, a replacement all-weather sports pitch, a multi-use games area, a new car park and cycle parking, enhancing the school environment and opportunities for sport and extracurricular activities for the community. Supporting the DfE’s and Academy’s sustainability ambitions, the new campus will be Net Zero Carbon in Operation (NZCIO), reflecting the school’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Low-carbon technologies will include photovoltaic panels, air source heat pumps and ground source heat pumps. The project is expected to complete in 2028 and represents a significant long-term investment in the education of current and future pupils at The Mosslands School and the wider Wallasey community. Mike Poole-Sutherland, North West Director at Willmott Dixon: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the DfE and The Mosslands School on this landmark new school. Creating a contemporary, sustainable school that will provide inspiring learning environments for up to 1,500 pupils is something we are extremely proud to be delivering. This new campus will benefit students, staff and the wider community for years to come and we’re pleased to be playing our part in making this happen.” Mr Whiteley, headteacher at the Mosslands School: “This is a building that the students and community of Wallasey deserve. It will transform the learning environment and open up a world of possibilities for our students. It also builds on the proud history we have in providing technological excellence and we are delighted that the DfE recognises the importance of this in a modern education setting. “Equally, we are committed to ensuring that the building provides opportunity for community engagement and education and are grateful that we have been granted a building that enables us to do so.” Dominic Williams, Project Director at Ellis Williams Architects: “We are delighted that our design for Mosslands will be realised for both the School and the community. We hope the wide range of exciting spaces including a dramatic central atrium, flexible theatre, sports halls and a design technology zone will provide an aspiration to all the users.” Creating a meaningful impact and long-term legacy in Wallasey, Willmott Dixon and its local supply chain partners will support 20 T-Level students, deliver over 200 apprenticeship weeks and engage with local community projects. The project was secured through the DfE Construction Framework High Value Band Lot 1 & 2 and reflects Willmott Dixon’s strong track record in education delivery, with £700 million secured to date on the current DfE framework. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Planning permission has been granted for a new, 77-bed development in Coalville, specifically designed for over-55s, representing a major step forward in the town’s masterplan. Multi-disciplinary design practice, rg+p Ltd has secured planning consent for the redevelopment of land next to Baker Street in the North Leicestershire town. Working with Geda Construction for Trent & Dove, the practice has designed a proposal that will transform disused and vacant industrial land into a contemporary development to meet the growing housing needs of our ageing population. Made up of 77 one- and two-bed affordable social rent apartments, the project also features residents’ lounges, guest accommodation, lobby, office space, buggy store, parking and extensive landscaping, including a spectacular sunken garden. rg+p’s design was inspired by Coalville’s industrial heritage, as lead architect, Sarah Grocock explains: “Our material choices focused on red brick and clay tiles to provide a connection with Coalville’s industrial past, but the design introduces familiar shapes such as feature gables to soften the scheme and give it a residential feel. “Different streetscapes define character areas throughout the building and help signal the transition between public, semi-private and private space. We also sought to harness the level change within the site to create meaningful amenity space, with the sunken garden providing a focal point for this,” adds Sarah. The approved scheme includes new access arrangements, including an extension of Linden Way which North West Leicestershire District Council received funding to provide, sustainable drainage systems and high-quality landscaping that will deliver a significant biodiversity net gain. It will also provide built-in, permanent nest brick and bat roost brick features, bee bricks and invertebrate hibernaculum. Sarah continues: “Securing planning permission for this site represents a significant milestone for our work on the wider Coalville masterplan, which also encompasses the neighbouring Wolsey Road development. “A ProCon Award finalist last year, Wolsey Road has already delivered 77 high quality, affordable homes and helped established a thriving new community in the town. It’s therefore exciting that this latest consent allows us to build on that success and continue to play a meaningful role in Coalville’s ongoing regeneration,” concludes Sarah. Charlie Riley, Development Director, Trent & Dove adds: “rg+p’s design for this brownfield site will connect seamlessly with the wider regeneration and retain a sense of individuality. They have been aligned with our vision for this development, and we look forward to delivering much-needed homes and employment opportunities for the town.” Construction at Baker Street is expected to start soon. The wider project team includes Arcadis (Employer’s Agent); BSP Consulting (Civil, Structure and Highways Engineer); Langcroft (Developer) and William Saunders (Highways Engineer – Link Road). Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has announced the launch of the Coalition for Life Cycle Emissions Alignment and Reporting (CLEAR);a global initiative designed to harmonise the measurement and reporting of whole-life carbon emissions across the global built environment. CLEAR is being launched at the Sustainable Buildings and Construction Summit held on April 20-22, 2026 in Lausanne, Switzerland. Bringing together leading organisations from across the sector, CLEAR has been established to create a more consistent and trusted approach to whole-life carbon assessment, improve confidence in carbon data and support faster progress towards decarbonisation targets. Human-generated greenhouse gas emissions remain a major driver of environmental, social and economic challenges, including rising global temperatures and biodiversity loss. The built environment is responsible for a significant share of those emissions, spanning both embodied and operational carbon. Yet despite growing recognition of the need for whole-life carbon measurement, fragmented and inconsistent methodologies continue to make it difficult for industry and policymakers to compare results, benchmark performance and make informed decisions. CLEAR aims to address that challenge by aligning how whole-life carbon emissions from buildings and infrastructure are measured and reported across different markets and jurisdictions. The initiative will analyse existing approaches, identify points of difference and develop a globally relevant framework for assessment and reporting. It will also support the sector through practical tools, technical resources and an online platform designed to build capability and encourage adoption. RICS is a founder of the coalition and will play a leading role in delivering the initiative alongside its co-founders, the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) and the Global Building Data Initiative (GBDI), as well as sponsor Autodesk. It will work with key industry collaborators including AECOM, Arcadis, Autodesk, Avison Young, Heidelberg Materials, Morgan Sindall, Once For All, OneClickLCA, Turner & Townsend, and we2sure. The coalition builds on existing industry leadership and recognised standards, including RICS’ whole-life carbon assessment guidance, as well as the International Cost Management Standards and International Property Measurement Standards. It also draws on RICS’ experience in supporting data transparency through initiatives such as the Built Environment Carbon Database. CLEAR is intended to bring together organisations from across the value chain, including standard setters, industry coalitions, developers and owners, manufacturers, software providers, investors and specialists in carbon measurement and reporting. Through this collaborative model, the coalition aims to strengthen trust in whole-life carbon practices and help support public-interest outcomes through greater consistency and transparency. In its first year, CLEAR will focus on coalition building, analysing existing whole-life carbon assessment methodologies and developing resources that can be used by both industry and policy stakeholders. The long-term ambition is to support a harmonised global framework that enables more effective reporting, stronger benchmarking and more confident carbon-related decision-making across the built environment. “The choices we make now will impact generations to come. The CLEAR initiative is a timely measure that will create shared trust, inspire confidence in carbon reporting, and empower the sector to shape a resilient, low‑carbon future.” – Nick Maclean, RICS President “We see early signals of real estate markets adopting Whole Life Carbon approaches to manage transition risk and drive decarbonization strategies, driven by investor demand, emerging city planning requirements, and industry calling for consistent and comparable carbon assessment as a demand driver for low-carbon solutions. While these approaches will be developed and adopted nationally and regionally, based on local needs and realities, it is important to ensure consistency and comparability of assessments, as well as ease of use for widescale adoption. CLEAR will provide the blueprints and guidance to move Whole Life Carbon from early adoption to scale.” – Roland Hunziker, Director Built Environment, WBCSD “Sustainability is a data problem – and the built environment is where that problem is most urgent and most solvable. But progress requires a common foundation: shared standards, consistent measurement, and carbon embedded in design decisions from day one. That’s why Autodesk is committed to supporting the standards and initiatives like CLEAR, bringing the industry together around what matters most, and make it possible to measure, compare, and improve at scale.” – Joe Speicher, Chief Sustainability Officer, Autodesk “The CLEAR initiative is a timely and important opportunity to align carbon assessment and reporting across the built environment – and GBDI is excited to support it! Together with the CLEAR partners, we are looking forward to further developing the open building data format (OpenBDF) and advancing this global standard for easy, open exchange of building material inventory and life cycle impact data.” – Dr. Martin Röck, GBDI Executive Director Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
PUBLIC sector procurement leaders YPO and Pagabo have formed a 10-year strategic delivery partnership that will see resources, reputation and expertise combined to establish a new benchmark for construction procurement. YPO is one of the UK’s largest public sector buying organisations, while Pagabo is the UK’s leading digital procurement specialist that manages a suite of frameworks across the construction, infrastructure, development and consultancy sectors. This long-term initiative brings together the scale and trust of YPO with the delivery expertise of Pagabo, to transform how complex construction projects are procured and delivered across the public sector. The partnership will bring new procurement options to the market, starting in the coming weeks with framework agreements catering for construction, infrastructure and development. Under the partnership, a series of new framework agreements will see YPO as the centralised procurement authority, while Pagabo will be responsible for design, delivery and ongoing management. Amman Boughan, group CEO at Pagabo, said: “Everything that we do at Pagabo furthers our mission to make procurement easier, quicker and more effective, and we’re confident that this new delivery partnership with YPO is a major step forward for both organisations. “Data-driven, digital procurement is positively shaking things up in the public sector already. Now, through YPO’s widespread trust and reach, and our digital-first delivery approach, we can establish a best-in-class proposition together that ensures procurement is a force for good in the public sector. With widespread capital expenditure entering the market to improve the lives of people across the UK, it’s essential that procurement is recognised as an able delivery vehicle for new infrastructure as well as social value, local growth and environmental improvements.” The partnership has been formed little more than one year on from the introduction of the Procurement Act 2023, which is still a source of caution and uncertainty for public sector organisations. Combining extensive experience and expertise in procurement management, compliance and value, YPO and Pagabo will be working together to tackle common public sector challenges including regulation complexity, delivery pressures and capacity constraints. At the same time as providing simple, fast and compliant routes to market, the two organisations will support public sector organisations by ensuring that procurement delivers measurable social value and sustainability outcomes. In practice, this means supporting local economies and supply chains, increasing skills and employment opportunities, contributing to environmental improvements, and promoting ethical procurement. Michelle Walker, head of procurement services at YPO, said: “With Pagabo, we’ve established a market-leading delivery partnership to ensure procurement is a catalyst for real-world outcomes. As we continue our own evolution, which further develops the construction, infrastructure and development sectors, this partnership is a significant move. “We were already aware of the excellent reputation that Pagabo maintains in the construction sector, but the rigorous tender process that led to the formation of this partnership was further evidence of their attention to detail and commitment to impact. As this new collective chapter has come to fruition, every effort has been made to successfully ensure that we share values and ambitions that will enable us to support the public sector with faster and smarter delivery of new infrastructure.” To learn more about Pagabo, visit www.pagabo.co.uk To learn more about YPO, visit www.ypo.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Glenigan Review reveals choked activity as international conflict strangles pipeline Today, Glenigan | A Hubexo Company (Glenigan), one of the construction industry’s leading insight and intelligence experts, releases the April 2026 edition of its Construction Review. The Review focuses on the three months to the end of March 2026, covering all major (>£100m) and underlying (<£100m) projects, with all underlying figures seasonally adjusted. It’s a report providing a detailed and comprehensive analysis of year-on-year construction data, giving built environment professionals a unique insight into sector performance over the past year. The April Review paints a bleak picture of an industry buffeted by frustratingly persistent socioeconomic headwinds. The poor project starts figures, recorded in the three months to the end of March 2026, fell back 6%, whilst nosediving by 20% on 2025 levels. Glenigan’s data shows activity becoming increasingly uneven sector-wide and, whilst main contract awards rose against the preceding quarter (+30%) and last year (+3%), fewer projects are actually making it to site. As such, these positive results ring hollow. This cooling-off is acutely observed in a significant decline in detailed planning approvals, which saw their value slashed in half (-51%) compared to 2025 levels, falling by almost a third (-29%) during the review period. Global markets are in a state of shock, prompted by the escalation of the US/Iran war, which has led to the closure of key trading routes, damaging investor confidence. This is likely to exacerbate the current downward spiral over the coming months. Commenting on the April Review, Allan Wilen, Glenigan’s Economics Director, says, “Private investment and consumer spend has stalled. A general increase in the cost of living is squeezing household spending and denting homebuyers’ confidence, while investors are cautious given the weak economic outlook, stifling potential momentum in the property market and resulting in general wariness. The Iran War is exacerbating these pressures by stoking inflation and further weakening economic growth. Unfortunately, this situation is unlikely to end in the near term, with energy costs expected to remain high this year and the prospect of interest rates cuts fading fast. “This growing culture of cautiousness is extending to contractors, subcontractors and product manufacturers alike, where higher oil prices are starting to cascade down the supply chain, raising energy, material, transport and on-site costs. Already battling against uncomfortable financial conditions, skills shortages and a deluge of complex regulations, it’s little wonder that many are keeping their powder dry until economic stability returns.” Drilling down into the sector verticals, performance was inconsistent, in line with the overall findings of the April Review. Despite remaining well behind the preceding quarter’s results, there were a few indicators that show, when measured against 2025 levels, activity hasn’t completely ground to a halt and the pipeline flow, whilst weak, is still active. Taking a closer look… Strong starts According to Glenigan data, Offices, Hotel & Leisure and Education stood out during the quarter, registering strong year-on-year growth in project starts. Offices led the way with a 75% surge, while Hotel & Leisure and Education both posted 31% increases, a broadly positive picture against a backdrop of wider market uncertainty. That said, forward-looking indicators were more cautious across Office and Hotel & Leisure, with main contract awards and detailed planning approvals declining year-on-year in each case, suggesting the pipeline may soften in the months ahead. Within Offices, growth was broad-based, with the value of major projects rising by 84% year-on-year. Data centre construction has been a key driver, though the sector faces headwinds from rising industrial electricity costs and grid-connection delays, illustrated by the indefinite pause on OpenAI’s Stargate UK scheme in North Tyneside. In Hotel & Leisure, indoor leisure facilities and cinemas and theatres were the standout performers, rising 133% and 186% respectively, while hotels and guest houses fell 30%. Education continued to benefit from the Schools Rebuilding Programme, with schools dominating activity and university schemes contributing meaningfully, though college projects declined. Regionally, London dominated Office activity with starts up by 124% year-on-year, boosted by a major data centre scheme. The South West surged 15-fold. In Hotel & Leisure, Scotland led with a 205% rise, closely followed by London and the South West, which quadrupled year-on-year. Education starts were also strongest in London, with Scotland also making a solid contribution driven by public-sector investment. It’s a deal Two sectors registered a rise in main contract awards against 2025 levels during the quarter: Housing and Civil Engineering. Housing delivered a 41% increase year-on-year, while Civils posted an 11% rise, encouraging signals for future workloads in both sectors. The picture was more complex beneath the surface, however, with project starts declining in both cases and planning approvals remaining under pressure, particularly in Civils where approvals fell 81% year-on-year. In Housing, the uplift in starts was driven largely by major projects, with social sector housing the dominant force, up 230% year-on-year and accounting for 41% of all starts. Private housing and private apartments, by contrast, fell 44% and 50% respectively. The outlook is cautiously optimistic but fragile, with global instability and early signs of softening house prices (including a decline reported by Halifax) suggesting the recovery may be short-lived. In Civils, energy schemes remained a significant component despite falling below last year’s levels. Airport-related infrastructure recorded growth, albeit from a low base, and future investment in road, rail and utilities infrastructure is expected to provide a firmer foundation from 2026/27. Regionally, Yorkshire & the Humber dominated housing project starts, substantially driven by major social housing heating works in Leeds, while London was the second most active region, despite a moderate decline. In Civils, London led project starts, rising 143%, while Scotland accounted for the largest share of planning approvals at 20%, though activity there fell 39% year-on-year. Northern Ireland recorded sharp approval growth of 903%, pointing to potential future activity in the region. Seal of approval Glenigan’s data highlights that Health, Retail and Community & Amenity shared a common thread during the quarter: while project starts and main contract awards declined year-on-year