Lovell Partnerships continues to show resilience and is in a strong position to support future growth, which has contributed to Morgan Sindall Group’s half year results. Half year operating profits are up by around 16% to £11.7m and, across the business, contracting activity was up by 21%. In addition, Lovell
In response to the government announcement that the Chancellor is in North America to discuss, among other things, best practice to help unlock the UK’s clean energy potential, Grundfos UK MD Glynn Williams has called for experts to shine a spotlight on the low-hanging fruit solutions that can deliver energy
Appointment will see Glencar build units 5 & 6, totalling 31,530 sq ft at Verdant’s high profile New Stanton Park Development industrial/development at Ilkeston in Derbyshire. Glencar, a leading UK construction company that was recently ranked amongst Europe’s fastest growing businesses, has today announced that it has been reappointed by
The IWFM are delighted to announce the 2024 IWFM Impact Awards finalists! Well done to all the individuals, teams and projects that are in contention across the 19 categories for this year’s Awards. The IWFM esteemed panel of judges had a tough job deliberating the entries, which touched upon many
The steel framework for a new city centre college campus has been completed as part of the council’s transformational Phase Two City Learning Quarter masterplan. Situated around the Old Hall Street and St George’s Parade area, incorporating a site on the corner of Garrick Street and Bilston Street where the
National Grid has achieved a significant milestone in its £1 billion London Power Tunnels 2 (LPT2) project, with the successful energisation of the first 2.5km circuit between Hurst substation and Crayford. This milestone marks the initial step in a broader effort to reinforce the capital’s electricity network, ensuring it meets
a&o Hostels, Europe’s largest privately owned hostel chain, has been making waves in the hospitality industry with its ambitious sustainability goals and strategic growth. Their commitment to converting existing properties into eco-friendly hostels is a testament to their innovative approach to building and construction, particularly in repurposing historic buildings for
TRANSFORMATIVE redevelopment plans are underway in Weybridge, Surrey, that will place educational, commercial and wellbeing opportunities at the heart of the community. The new Surrey County Council Weybridge Hub, located on the existing Weybridge Library site on Church Road, will include a new library, youth support service, activity area, and business space in a modern
Leading construction company Henry Brothers has partnered with the Scottish Prison Service to support its workshop joinery training programme, designed to improve employability skills for inmates upon release. As part of its ongoing work with the Dunfermline Army Reserve Project, Henry Brothers has acquired five eight-seater picnic tables produced through
Eric Wright Construction has started the building and fit out of a £22million college building for Seashell Trust in Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire, which will deliver specialist education facilities for students aged 16-25. The new building for Royal College Manchester is made up of a reception and specialist classrooms along with
Lovell Partnerships continues to show resilience and is in a strong position to support future growth, which has contributed to Morgan Sindall Group’s half year results. Half year operating profits are up by around 16% to £11.7m and, across the business, contracting activity was up by 21%. In addition, Lovell is delivering significant affordable housing, helping to support the UK’s severe need for high-quality affordable housing. The firm’s secured and pipeline workload has increased significantly over recent years, through its geographic expansion and ambition to grow the number and size of multi-tenure sites. The strength of these results can be attributed to its partnership model, which includes multi-tenure development of open market and affordable homes, together with its contracting expertise delivering new homes on a design and build basis, in addition to the planned maintenance and refurbishment of existing homes. The Group delivered another record set of results in the first half, once again reflecting the high quality of its operations and the talent and commitment of its people. Group revenue increased by 14% to £2.2bn, adjusted operating profit before tax was up 17% to £70.1m and the interim dividend up 15% to 41.5 pence per share. The Group’s balance sheet remains strong with net cash of £351m, and together with its high-quality secured order book of £8.7bn, the Group is well-positioned for the future. Lovell Managing Director, Steve Coleby, said: “Our partnership housing model, which focuses on long-term partnerships with the public sector, has provided resilience against a softer housing market and demand for contracting has remained strong throughout the first half of the year. “We welcome the new government’s recent pledge to create 1.5m homes within the next five years, including freeing up planning restrictions to enable further delivery. This will not only unlock a large number of regeneration schemes, but importantly will pave the way for further investment, bringing forward wider opportunities to create a positive and meaningful legacy in the communities we serve. Lovell is very well placed to support the government’s national targets and we are ready to deliver. “Our continued strong performance is testament to our partners, supply chain and our colleagues, and we thank them for their valued commitment to delivering new homes in very challenging circumstances.” Lovell is working on a number of key projects across the UK, including: To view the Morgan Sindall Group plc full year results video, click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In response to the government announcement that the Chancellor is in North America to discuss, among other things, best practice to help unlock the UK’s clean energy potential, Grundfos UK MD Glynn Williams has called for experts to shine a spotlight on the low-hanging fruit solutions that can deliver energy efficiency in a quick and cost-effective way. Glynn argues that any emphasis on clean energy is undermined by the fact that many UK buildings currently waste a great deal of energy. Fixing this issue as well as advancing the green transition will be key to making the country a sustainable energy superpower. Glynn Williams, UK Managing Director of Grundfos: “Whilst the Chancellor’s discussion with clean energy experts in Canada is welcome, this government must go further to implement low-hanging fruit solutions that can deliver energy efficiency in households and businesses across the country. “Alongside getting Britain to build green, government must address existing buildings which currently cost the country £3.1bn in wasted energy. Insulation alone cannot address this issue – lesser known, more cost-effective measures, such as upgrading heating systems’ circulator pumps, will be critical to optimising energy use. We need funding and regulation that will facilitate them. “The UK will undermine its status as a ‘Clean Energy Superpower’ if it misses the opportunity to use this energy as efficiently as possible, and thus enjoy the environmental and financial benefits this brings.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Appointment will see Glencar build units 5 & 6, totalling 31,530 sq ft at Verdant’s high profile New Stanton Park Development industrial/development at Ilkeston in Derbyshire. Glencar, a leading UK construction company that was recently ranked amongst Europe’s fastest growing businesses, has today announced that it has been reappointed by Verdant Regeneration to develop 2 new units totalling 31,350 sq ft at their 200-acre strategic industrial/warehouse development site at Ilkeston in Derbyshire The appointment follows shortly after the completion of Unit 1, a new 20,400 sq ft build to suit regional hub development constructed for DX Group . Designed by leading architectural practice Stephen George Partnerships, construction of the £4.4M units started on site in June and is expected to take 34 weeks to build with PC expected in the spring of 2025. Speaking about the project Pete Goodman, Managing Director – UK Midlands, North and Ireland said: “Repeat business is the best business and after a successful negotiation we are once again delighted to be back onsite at New Stanton Park so soon after completing DX’s impressive new regional sortation Hub. This development is a significant strategically located site in the Midlands adjacent to the M1 – ideally situated for the road and rail networks of the UK. It is therefore unsurprising that the development has already received major interest from numerous international, national and regional occupiers. Glencar are delighted to be part of the delivery of this key scheme and we look forward to once again be working with the team from Verdant and delivering these next units to come out of the ground. Also in comment, David Ward of Verdant Regeneration said: We are delighted to re-appoint Glencar for the construction of the next 2 build to suit units on New Stanton Park following the successful build of Unit 1 for our first tenant DX (Group) plc. New Stanton Park offers an excellent, strategic location, blending an active rail connection with strong private and public transport connectivity. To finally see the buildings rising out of the ground following years of design and planning is fantastic. We look forward to welcoming many more new tenants to New Stanton Park”
The IWFM are delighted to announce the 2024 IWFM Impact Awards finalists! Well done to all the individuals, teams and projects that are in contention across the 19 categories for this year’s Awards. The IWFM esteemed panel of judges had a tough job deliberating the entries, which touched upon many of our sector’s key trends; they were hugely encouraged by the incredible number of submissions this year and the quality of the work, making this year’s finalists even more impressive. Workplace Experience: Office/Corporate Environment Workplace Experience: Non-office/Corporate Environment Positive Climate Action Positive Climate Action – Towards Net Zero Sponsored by: CEF Excellence in Customer Experience Change Management Social Value Sponsored by: Waste to Wonder Worldwide Wellbeing Sponsored by: Waste to Wonder Worldwide Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Initiative Sponsored by: Equans People Development and Talent Retention Sponsored by: Moston Product or Service Development Technology Sponsored by: Jones FM Collaboration Best SME Led Innovation Sponsored by: Waste to Wonder Worldwide Team of the Year: Public or Third Sector Sponsored by: Tork Team of the Year: Private Sector Sponsored by: PTSG IWFM Newcomer of the Year Sponsored by: 14forty IWFM Manager of the Year Sponsored by: Thomson FM Frontline Heroes Sponsored by: Kier Places Table bookings are now open for the Awards’ entrants, with the ceremony taking place on 14 October 2024 at JW Marriott Grosvenor House London. Please note there are a limited number of Premium tables and tables of 12 available for entrants, so you will need to book early before they sell out. If you are a non-entrant, single ticket bookings are now available. If you are interested in booking more than a single ticket to attend the Awards, the IWFM have a limited number of supporter packages available which include a table of ten. Please email awards@iwfm.org.uk for further information. The IWFM wish to thank everyone that entered this year’s Awards and look forward to welcoming you for a night to remember in October, where alongside opportunities to network, socialise and celebrate the finalists and winners. Also disclosing the recipients of the new Deborah Rowland Scholarship. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The steel framework for a new city centre college campus has been completed as part of the council’s transformational Phase Two City Learning Quarter masterplan. Situated around the Old Hall Street and St George’s Parade area, incorporating a site on the corner of Garrick Street and Bilston Street where the former Faces nightclub building once stood, the development is also utilising City of Wolverhampton College’s existing Metro One building. McLaughlin & Harvey has now moved onto the next stage of works – which includes floor decking installation and concrete pour on all levels, façade works and roofing – and remain on course to deliver the new state-of-the-art facility in time for the start of the 2025/26 academic year. Alongside improved Adult Education Wolverhampton and Central Library facilities, the £61 million scheme – supported by Government funding – will establish new educational provision that enhance skills and employment outcomes for residents across the city and wider region. Councillor Chris Burden, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “The City Learning Quarter has been a long-held ambition of the city council and fantastic progress is being made by the contractors in the creation of a vibrant education hub that will unlock future opportunities for all in the city. “We are working hard with City of Wolverhampton College to ensure we improve the city’s learning, apprenticeship and employment offers, and retain our best talent. “The steel framework alone is impressive and gives us a taste of how these new facilities will provide a vital facelift to our city centre. It will be an inspirational environment for people to learn in, also offering excellent connectivity to rail, bus, tram and cycle routes. “We will be delivering an environment where everyone can flourish, demonstrating the commitment we have to investing in our residents.” Paul Davies, Director of Finance at the college, said: “The completion of the steelwork is a significant milestone in the construction of the new city centre site which will enable us to move from the Paget Road site and welcome students to the new campus in the 2025/26 academic year. “The City Learning Quarter, including the new Advanced Technology and Automotive Centre which is due to open at the Wellington Road campus this September, will transform the learning environment for thousands of students and apprentices, provide modern teaching facilities for staff, and ensure the workforce of the future is equipped with the skills and knowledge that employers need their staff to have.” Warinder Juss, MP for Wolverhampton West, said: “The development of the City Learning Quarter to include Wolverhampton College provides exciting opportunities to not only the students of the college but will also help with the regeneration of the city centre. It is great to see the progress that has been made.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
National Grid has achieved a significant milestone in its £1 billion London Power Tunnels 2 (LPT2) project, with the successful energisation of the first 2.5km circuit between Hurst substation and Crayford. This milestone marks the initial step in a broader effort to reinforce the capital’s electricity network, ensuring it meets the demands of the future. The LPT2 project involves the construction of 32.5km of new tunnels beneath London, stretching from Wimbledon to Crayford, to house a new high-voltage 275kV network. These 3m-diameter tunnels were bored by the Hochtief-Murphy Joint Venture (HMJV) between 2020 and 2023, with cables supplied by Taihan and installed by Balfour Beatty. The first circuit now sits 35m below ground, although the tunnels reach depths of up to 50m at certain points. The previous infrastructure between Hurst and Crayford was installed in 1967 and had served London reliably for decades, but the ageing cables were nearing the end of their operational life. These older cables were buried in shallow trenches, making them more susceptible to damage and harder to maintain. In contrast, the new LPT2 tunnels are equipped with vertical shafts between 9m and 15m wide, reaching depths of up to 55m. These shafts, located at key points along the tunnel route and covered by headhouses, provide ventilation and safe access for maintenance, reducing disruption and enhancing safety. In addition to the newly energised circuit, the LPT2 project includes two other double circuits: a 12km route between Wimbledon substation and New Cross, and an 18km route between New Cross and Hurst. A new substation at Bengeworth Road is also under construction, which will be the UK’s first to utilise SF6-free gas-insulated switchgear technology, marking a significant advancement in reducing the environmental impact of electrical infrastructure. Energy Minister Michael Shanks attended the energisation event, praising the project as a shining example of British engineering excellence. “The London Power Tunnels demonstrate British infrastructure at its best,” Shanks stated. “This project is not only about securing the future of London’s electricity supply but also about driving the UK’s ambition to become a clean energy superpower. The engineering feats achieved here will help create skilled jobs and revitalise communities across the UK.” Alice Delahunty, President of National Grid Electricity Transmission, highlighted the importance of this milestone. “The energisation of the Hurst-Crayford circuit is a tremendous achievement for our teams and supply chain partners,” she said. “Building over 30km of tunnels under London has been an extraordinary engineering challenge, and this progress is a testament to everyone involved.” Raj Kundan, HMJV Project Director, reflected on the collaborative efforts that brought the project to this point. “Energising the first circuit from Hurst to Crayford marks a major milestone for the Project 13 Enterprise,” Kundan noted. “Our ‘One Team, One Spirit’ approach has been crucial in overcoming the complex challenges posed by this project. We look forward to continuing this successful collaboration on the remaining circuits.” The current LPT2 project is the second phase of a larger initiative to bolster London’s electricity network. It follows the completion in 2018 of the first phase, a £1 billion, seven-year project that saw the construction of 32km of tunnels and two new substations in North London. Together, these efforts are laying the groundwork for a more resilient and future-ready electricity network for the capital. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
a&o Hostels, Europe’s largest privately owned hostel chain, has been making waves in the hospitality industry with its ambitious sustainability goals and strategic growth. Their commitment to converting existing properties into eco-friendly hostels is a testament to their innovative approach to building and construction, particularly in repurposing historic buildings for modern use. This strategy not only preserves the architectural heritage of European cities but also aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and green initiatives in the construction and hospitality sectors. Sustainable Growth through Building Conversions One of the most striking aspects of a&o’s expansion strategy is their focus on converting existing office and commercial properties into hostel accommodations. This approach significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with new construction, contributing to their goal of becoming Europe’s first net-zero hostel chain by 2025. The company’s sustainability report for 2023 highlights a 77% reduction in CO2 emissions per overnight stay since 2015, with current emissions standing at just 3.32 kilograms of CO2e per night. The environmental benefits of repurposing buildings are substantial. By avoiding the emissions linked to new construction, a&o is helping to conserve resources and reduce waste. Experts suggest that the carbon savings from these conversions could equal the emissions of up to 30 years of operation. This approach not only enhances the sustainability of their operations but also preserves the unique character of historic buildings, allowing guests to experience a piece of history during their stay. Embracing Green Renovations To further their green initiatives, a&o has committed to investing 20 million euros by 2029 in energy-efficient renovations of their existing properties. These renovations aim to achieve at least energy efficiency class C for every building, ensuring that the hostels are not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective in the long term. A prime example of this is the recent modernisation of a&o’s Munich Hackerbrücke hostel, where around 5 million euros were spent on renovations to improve energy efficiency. Such efforts are part of a&o’s broader strategy to enhance the sustainability of their property portfolio, which currently consists of 39 hostels across nine European countries. A New Chapter in Brighton The recent opening of a&o Brighton, the company’s second UK property, exemplifies their commitment to sustainable growth and building conversion. The hostel is housed in a listed Regency-era building that once served as a hotel in 1819. By converting this historic property into a modern hostel, a&o has not only preserved its architectural heritage but also breathed new life into a structure with deep historical significance. Located in the heart of Brighton, with stunning views of the famous Brighton Pier, the hostel offers 50 rooms with a total of 186 beds. The property includes a Victorian-style lobby bar and a characterful restaurant, maintaining the building’s original charm while providing modern amenities for guests. Expanding with a Green Conscience As part of their growth strategy, a&o plans to continue expanding across Europe, with potential new locations in London, Paris, Rome, Madrid, and other major cities. The company is focused on sustainable growth, ensuring that each new property aligns with their long-term vision of sustainability and green practices. Their success in integrating sustainability into their business model is further evidenced by their record-breaking performance in 2023, with 6.1 million overnight stays and a turnover of 217 million euros. This momentum is likely to continue as the company leverages its sustainability credentials to attract environmentally conscious travellers. Leading the Way in Sustainable Hospitality a&o Hostels’ commitment to sustainability and green construction practices is setting a new standard in the hospitality industry. By converting existing buildings and investing in energy-efficient renovations, they are not only reducing their carbon footprint but also preserving the architectural heritage of Europe’s cities. As they continue to expand, a&o’s model of sustainable growth serves as an inspiration for the wider industry, demonstrating that it is possible to achieve business success while also protecting the environment. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
TRANSFORMATIVE redevelopment plans are underway in Weybridge, Surrey, that will place educational, commercial and wellbeing opportunities at the heart of the community. The new Surrey County Council Weybridge Hub, located on the existing Weybridge Library site on Church Road, will include a new library, youth support service, activity area, and business space in a modern multi-use environment. Integrating closely with the local community, lettable tenants will be able to make use of the commercial areas, with a bookable co-working system in place for local businesses and visiting guests. Regional broadcaster Brooklands Radio will also be a part of the new Weybridge Hub when it opens in Spring 2025. Multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard is working with Surrey County Council and AtkinsRealis on the project, delivering principal design, interior design, architecture and landscape architecture services. The firm is also operating as lead designer via the Surrey Framework for RIBA Stages 1-3, and now as technical advisor for RIBA Stage 4. Sainaja Feroz, associate at Pick Everard, said: “This is an exciting project that will make a real difference to local people in Weybridge and anyone travelling to this part of Surrey. Having a central community space is so important for the future of our towns and cities, and this new hub is a perfect example of the way in which old spaces can be reshaped and revitalised to meet modern needs, with a host of services under one roof. “The project builds on our extensive working knowledge operating under the Surrey Framework, and we’re looking forward to the hub taking shape and becoming a welcoming environment for families, businesses, and a host of local organisations for generations to come.” Natalie Bramhall, Surrey County Council cabinet member for infrastructure, property and waste, said: “We are pleased to be working with Pick Everard on our new Weybridge Hub. We have been reviewing existing spaces within the county to ensure we are making the most of our assets, investing in infrastructure and providing modern, accessible and sustainable spaces for the future benefit of residents both young and old. “The new Community Hubs form part of this, with the offering at each hub tailored to the specific needs of the surrounding neighbourhood.” Flexibility and accessibility have been key to the design of the new community hub in Weybridge, with the site sitting within a conservation area and adjacent to listed buildings, including St. James Parish Church, which is view protected. The external fabric of the new building will be enhanced to modernise and increase its longevity, while also complying with recommendations given by heritage and planning consultants. Devika Parmar, director at Pick Everard, said: “The scheme at Weybridge has relied on close stakeholder management, which has enabled us to produce an aesthetic that enhances the building’s layout and uses while retaining its existing character. “Early engagement with building control has allowed the programme to really accelerate, gaining valuable feedback during design development stages that will deliver a fantastic new space for the community of Weybridge.” The design will also consider sustainability objectives, with an aim to achieve the highest energy efficiency and carbon reduction targets under LETI guidance. Following a TM54 assessment, the building improvements are predicted to result in a 68% reduction in energy consumption and a 78.3% reduction in total carbon emissions. The project also forms part of Surrey County Council’s 2030 vision and asset management strategy, which aims to enhance community spaces for people of all ages while promoting services and activities for the community, including ‘safe spaces’ and 24/7 requirements. For more information on Pick Everard and the services it provides, visit https://www.pickeverard.co.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading construction company Henry Brothers has partnered with the Scottish Prison Service to support its workshop joinery training programme, designed to improve employability skills for inmates upon release. As part of its ongoing work with the Dunfermline Army Reserve Project, Henry Brothers has acquired five eight-seater picnic tables produced through the Prison Service training initiative. Ian Henry, CR Director at Henry Brothers, commented: “As a responsible business, Henry Brothers is passionate about supporting the areas in which it operates and providing opportunities to enhance local spaces. “This initiative embodies our core values, reflecting our commitment to social responsibility and collaboration for positive impact, and we are thrilled that we can give back in a way that benefits the wider community.” Henry Brothers, which has an office in Cardross, Dunbartonshire, secured the contract for the construction of the new Army Reserve Centre in Dunfermline in 2022. The five tables purchased will be generously donated to Fife Council for Dunfermline Public Park, Pittencreiff Park and St Leonard’s Park in line with the objectives of the Park Improvement Strategy. Adele Rae, General Manager at SPS Fauldhouse said: “Individuals in the care of the Scottish Prison Service have been involved in the manufacturing of a range of quality garden products for over 35 years. “The joinery training programmes in our prisons give people the opportunity to gain valuable new skills and qualifications and make positive changes to their lives. “We are delighted to see that their work is benefiting the local community in Dunfermline”. Fife Council’s Convener of the City of Dunfermline Area Committee, Cllr James Calder commented: “Henry Brothers plays a vital role in community support, and its recent generous donation will have a notable impact. “The contributed benches are expected to enhance our outdoor facilities, encouraging increased use of the park and contributing to the improved health and well-being of the local community by fostering a connection with nature. “The success of the Park Improvement Strategy, which seeks to upgrade facilities for residents, workers, and visitors alike, is dependent, in part, on contributions from responsible local businesses such as Henry Brothers and we are thrilled to have their support in this endeavour.” For more information about the company’s’ extensive corporate responsibility programme, visit henrybrothers.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Eric Wright Construction has started the building and fit out of a £22million college building for Seashell Trust in Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire, which will deliver specialist education facilities for students aged 16-25. The new building for Royal College Manchester is made up of a reception and specialist classrooms along with sports and administration facilities. The building will also incorporate a café, activity hall with extended climbing wall, fitness suite, rebound room, sensory integration room and a suite of flexible multi-purpose rooms at ground floor level, with contemporary office space above and external landscaping. The building will provide 12 new classrooms and six individual teaching spaces. Seashell provides support for young people with complex disabilities and communication needs. The specially equipped college building is designed to enable staff and students to move about with the minimum of restriction. It replaces an existing building which was not fit for purpose and did not have space for the adaptations needed to accommodate many of the students, some of whom use wheelchairs and other equipment to move about. Some students also live on campus in neighbouring residential homes. Commenting on the start on site, James Eager, Director Lead from Eric Wright Construction said: “We’re really pleased to have started on the delivery of this superb new college building which will really enhance the lives of the students and staff alike. The building has gone through a painstaking design and review process in collaboration with the Trust’s teaching team, with every element of its design tailored to meet the needs of the students.” Brandon Leigh, Chief Executive at Seashell, said: “Watching the building finally start to take shape is exciting and we can’t wait to see students and staff enjoying the building very soon. The new college building will mean improved accessibility for students and will be much better at meeting the needs of the young adults with complex disabilities who come to Seashell. Seeing the building complete will be a monumental point in our history!” Eric Wright started enabling works in January and the building is expected to complete in Autumn 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals