McLaren Construction Midlands and North has delivered phase one of Konect 62 – a speculative industrial and logistics development located in Knottingley, West Yorkshire. Comprising three sustainable units across the 60-acre first phase which are now available to let, the contractor worked together with C4 architects to complete the first
This year’s edition of the Workspace Design Show (27 – 28 February 2024, Business Design Centre, London), presents an impressive array of features. These bring together some of the industry’s leading designers, architects and built environment partners and range from an immersive forest stage to an interactive lighting installation. Altogether,
L75 and L85 updated with features from the Top-of-the-Range… In 2021, Bobcat launched the company’s first compact wheel loader (CWL), the L85. In 2022, the company added the L75 value model and in 2023, Bobcat launched its top-of-the-range premium model, the L95. As part of Bobcat’s continuous improvement programme based
The construction industry accounted for 12% of administrations in 2023 – the second highest sector in the UK – according to analysis by full-service law firm Shakespeare Martineau. A total of 1,641 businesses, 200 of which came from the construction industry, filed for administration last year – marking a 22%
Balfour Beatty today announces that it has been appointed by Hub South East to deliver two new primary schools, valued at £43 million, in East Lothian, Scotland. Balfour Beatty will be responsible for the design and construction of the two new primary schools, located in Craighall and Blindwells, which will
In the realm of design, one cannot underestimate the significance of artwork. It possesses the ability to infuse life and character into any space, elevating it from ordinary to extraordinary. While there is an abundance of choices when it comes to selecting art for your walls, custom wall art stands
Landsec has acquired a 92% stake in Liverpool ONE, one of the UK’s leading retail and leisure destinations, for a total of £490 million. The deal was struck with a subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), which held a 69% share, and Grosvenor, which owned 23%. Of the
We will be sharing, news, reviews and features in the New Year Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Glenigan’s December Review indicates a pick-up in momentum as economic certainty starts to return Yesterday, Glenigan, one of the construction industry’s leading insight and intelligence experts, releases the December 2024 edition of its Construction Review. This Review focuses on the three months to the end of November 2024, covering all major
BOOSTING regional regeneration efforts, work has commenced on the redevelopment of previously derelict railway arches in Greater Manchester, which will be transformed into new destinations for food and drink, leisure and retail businesses. The arches on Norton Street, Salford, are located in Greengate, an area of the city currently experiencing
McLaren Construction Midlands and North has delivered phase one of Konect 62 – a speculative industrial and logistics development located in Knottingley, West Yorkshire. Comprising three sustainable units across the 60-acre first phase which are now available to let, the contractor worked together with C4 architects to complete the first phase for joint venture partners, Henderson Park and Cole Waterhouse. With a capability of providing over 1,500 jobs, phase one units include 161,000, 151,000 and 61,000 sq. ft options alongside a 30-acre service plot, which was delivered with utilities and access to accommodate several Build-to-Suit options. The entire Konect 62 development, which will include multiple phases, will be adopting low carbon building design and technology to target a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. McLaren Construction Midlands and North inducted 1,350 people during the delivery of the first phase, and a combined total of 138,200 work hours were required for the build. The Konect 62 site is located on the previous site of Kellingley Colliery, the last deep mine in the UK which opened in 1959 and closed in 2015. Gary Cramp, Managing Director of McLaren Construction Midlands and North, said: “We’re pleased to have delivered phase one of this landmark industrial and logistics hub, for joint venture partners Henderson Park and Cole Waterhouse, of which we’ve received excellent feedback. “Our dedicated team and subcontractors worked exceptionally hard to ensure the quality, sustainability and timeliness of the phase, which was completed in 12 months, using predominantly local labour from the surrounding community. The scheme will provide essential jobs and opportunities for the sector in a prime location.” David Nuttall, Managing Director of Industrial & Logistics at Cole Waterhouse, said: “McLaren has delivered an excellent first phase at Konect 62, exactly 12 months from signing the build contract. The three units and 30-acre plot set the tone for the remainder of the site and firmly establish Konect 62 as a genuine business location. A year ago, the site was featureless, and all traces of the former mine had been cleared. The change today is dramatic, and it is now a first-rate logistics park offering a variety of existing units and Build-to-Suit opportunities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
This year’s edition of the Workspace Design Show (27 – 28 February 2024, Business Design Centre, London), presents an impressive array of features. These bring together some of the industry’s leading designers, architects and built environment partners and range from an immersive forest stage to an interactive lighting installation. Altogether, 2024’s features represent an incredible spectacle for attendees of the Show, which has become a must-visit event for office interiors professionals since its inception in 2021. Design Talks Lounge by Gensler Curated by Gensler, the design concept for the Design Talks Loungeat the Workspace Design Show 2024 delves into the overarching theme, ‘Bloom – Exploring the Thriving Ecosystem of Work Life’. This engaging experience aims to shed light on and draw inspiration from nature, encouraging a positive perspective on the evolving worlds of work and life. Established and independent furniture consultants, Hunters, have partnered with sustainably-focussed firms to help bring this feature to life. Office plant suppliers Exubia plays a central role with eye-capturing biophilic design, seamlessly merging live planting with innovative moss elements. This is complemented by a 66-metre custom printed fabric backdrop provided by Kvadrat, featuring a forest design and crafted by the incredibly skilled seamstresses at Waverley. The flooring, supplied by Material Hangout and Mogu, known for its bio-based solutions, reinforces the Design Talks Lounge’s environmental ethos, with the furniture carefully selected from Andreu World, a firm renowned for its commitment to sustainability, with products made from biodegradable and compostable properties. To extend the life cycle and impact of the design of the feature, post-event will see the redistribution of the plants and furniture featured, while the fabric finds a second life in charity projects, ensuring a sustainable and waste-free approach. Entrance by tp bennett Architectural, design and planning practice tp bennett is responsible for the design of the feature at the entrance to Workspace Design Show 2024. A series of elegant columns is arranged in a conceptual maze, serving as a symbolic representation of the intricate ecosystem of work life. Each column embodies the essence of ‘Bloom’ – another nod to the event’s theme. They stand tall and varied, representing the diversity of experiences and challenges often experienced in life and at the same time, the structures symbolize the growth, development and resilience of trees in a garden. As you navigate through the varied paths, you encounter different sculptural pieces created by Aectual, each one illustrating a delicate bloom, composed of recycled sustainable materials and textured 3D printed surfaces with accompanying organic biophilia provided by Vantage Spaces and Planteria, both experts in biophilic design & office planting. Vantage Spaces are using preserved foliage, which is harvested sustainably using natural dyes to preserve the stems and ensure they are VOC free, 100% natural & biodegradable. Overall, this conceptual maze invites contemplation on the organic nature of career progression, encouraging individuals to appreciate the beauty and resilience inherent in their professional journey. The feature is finished with a captivating modular, linear lighting system, subtly integrated by iGuzzini with contemporary textiles from Kvadrat and specialist plant lighting from Soltech. Insights Lounge by BDP Both the Occupiers Forum and the Sustainability Works sessions will be held in the Insights Lounge, designed exclusively by Lisa Pasi, graduate interior designer with international architects practice BDP. Also addressing the theme of, ‘Bloom’, Pasi’s concept will focus on the symbiotic relationship between man and nature. Hunters once again play a key role in terms of sourcing sustainable partners. Pasi’s vision promotes the purpose and validity of using natural materials within the workplace environment. To this end, wood and stone are not only aesthetically pleasing and foster a sense of warmth but also positively influence mood and well-being. Says Lisa Pasi, “Despite being constantly reminded of our connection to nature through our senses, this association tends to diminish when we find ourselves indoors, surrounded by artificial light and synthetic materials. Therefore, by adhering to biophilic design principles, the inclusion of natural materials will establish a connection to nature, bolstering concentration, creativity, and job satisfaction.” The sustainable credentials of flooring firms Mogu, Material Hangout and Ege carpets also underpin the concept. Overall, visitors to the Insights Lounge can enjoy a tactile experience and encounter the customisable options and unique qualities of natural materials, which are sure to enrich the overall comfort and engagement of individuals in the workplace. Living Workplace lighting installation Jason Bruges Studio presents two interactive lighting prototypes on the theme of ‘Living Workplace’. Each prototype is a 1:1 section of an existing, full-scale permanent artwork. The first prototype, called Energy Dynamics, originally developed for the Ukrainian energy company DTEK, uses technology for storytelling. The second prototype entitled The Experience Tunnel, was created for trading firm XTX Markets and introduces interaction to foster human connection and collaboration. Recharge Lounge M Moser Associates has crafted a captivating oasis featuring the exquisite Pebble Rubble modular seating range from Italian furniture manufacturer Moroso that transports us to a serene forestscape. Amidst the lively atmosphere of the Workspace Design Show, visitors will have the opportunity to be immersed in nature-inspired surroundings, where tranquillity and rejuvenation seamlessly converge. As the name suggests, the Recharge Lounge offers an opportunity to reset, refuel, recharge with Electrosonic also partnering to provide an experience where architecture, storytelling and technology connect in this enchanting retreat. Collectively, these features will form a key part of Workspace Design Show 2024 and promote meaningful discussions around the future of workplace, particularly in terms of best practice in sustainability. Register now to attend Workspace Design Show. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
L75 and L85 updated with features from the Top-of-the-Range… In 2021, Bobcat launched the company’s first compact wheel loader (CWL), the L85. In 2022, the company added the L75 value model and in 2023, Bobcat launched its top-of-the-range premium model, the L95. As part of Bobcat’s continuous improvement programme based on customer feedback, the company has announced annual updates for the L75 and L85 for model year 2024, allowing owners of the latest versions of these machines to benefit from some of the advanced features that were introduced last year on the L95. Award-Winning Wheel Loaders The Bobcat compact wheel loader range continues to win awards. The L85 was announced as a Product discipline winner in the 2021 edition of the world-renowned iF Design Awards. In September last year, the L75 and L85 won in the Product Design category in the international BIG SEE awards promoting unique and original creative achievements. With the award-winning designs of all three models, Bobcat has ensured that they share the same high level of standard features, providing high operator comfort and ease-of-operation, including: New features on the L75 and L85 (2024 model year) Power Bob-Tach (NEW) – factory option for L85 This provides a high-performing Bobcat attachment connection for applications in which maximum capacity for load and carry by bucket and pallet fork is not as important as connectivity to multiple Bob-Tach compliant attachments shared on the same job site with Bobcat skid-steer and compact track loaders. Heated Air Suspension Cloth Seat (NEW) – factory option The cab seat now offers a higher back rest with a head rest, together with air suspension set-up, lockable floating and left-hand adjustable arm rest, providing a new level of operator comfort on the L75 and L85. The cloth surface of the seat with heating added improves the operator’s comfort all year round − in both cold and hot weather. The seat also includes a sensor to indicate operator presence and to enhance safety (by inactivating auxiliary flow). Advanced Attachment Control (Improved) – standard configuration in L85 / factory option in L75 Bobcat has improved the advanced attachment system by adding new features that make the operator’s life easier. The new flex-drive feature allows the operator to change the engine’s RPM by manual throttle, independently from the foot throttle, at any time during operation. With this change, Bobcat has also provided auto-idle functionality when the machine is not in use for four seconds to reduce fuel consumption. Automatic Ride Control (Improved) – factory option To further enhance driving comfort at higher speed as well as with higher loads, Bobcat has improved this feature to meet customer expectations based on their feedback. The automatically activated loader boom suspension improves the operator’s comfort and helps protect the transported material from spillage when driving with a bucket or pallet forks. There is also more stability while moving up and down with a load/weight. Display logic has also been updated to indicate ride control activation-inactivation status. High Flow (Improved) – factory option This industry-unique feature adapted from other Bobcat loaders brings a 100 l/min flow to run high-flow attachments, such as snow blowers and planers. To further improve high flow attachment performance, Bobcat has increased the pressure from 200 to 225 bar. With this change, Bobcat has also reduced by 50% the time for automatic derate, set to protect hydraulic components when the machine is cold. Joystick Control (Improved) – standard configuration Based on customer feedback, Bobcat has improved the forward-reverse response time, together with improved lift and tilt multi-functionality to enhance productivity and operating experience. Machines already in the field can be updated simply by downloading new software – this is another Bobcat competitive advantage. Left-hand Arm Rest Upgrade for Suspension Seat (NEW) – Aftermarket orderable item For greater seating comfort and left hand support. To update the current suspension seat in the field, this feature is offered via the Aftermarket services from Bobcat. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The construction industry accounted for 12% of administrations in 2023 – the second highest sector in the UK – according to analysis by full-service law firm Shakespeare Martineau. A total of 1,641 businesses, 200 of which came from the construction industry, filed for administration last year – marking a 22% increase compared to 2022 and 91% rise in comparison to 2021. Retail, construction, hospitality, manufacturing, and real estate were the worst-hit sectors, collectively accounting for 59% of the administrations. Regionally, Greater London led the way with 22% of the filings, followed by the North West (14%) and South East (12%), data from The Gazette Official Public Record has revealed. While January (76) was the quietest month, administration numbers leapt to 177 in October – the most recorded for 43 months (185 in March 2020). With administrations nearing pre-Covid levels (1,794), an insolvency and restructuring expert has warned that sustained difficult trading periods combined with rising geopolitical tensions means we could see more businesses failing throughout 2024. Andy Taylor, partner and head of restructuring at Shakespeare Martineau, said: “The significant uptick in the number of companies filing for administration in 2023 underscores the challenges faced by businesses amid changing consumer habits, financial pressures, and geopolitical uncertainties. “In the labyrinth of economic complexities, the retail sector in particular is bearing the brunt, noted by the collapse of major player Wilko. There has also been a reduction in housebuilding, which has a knock-on effect in the construction and real estate sectors. “The cost of money, marked by high interest rates throughout 2023, exacerbates financial strains on businesses with models that thrived in a sub-2% interest rate environment. Organisations can only bear that pressure for so long before its sustained impact starts to wash through and they begin running out of cash. “A shift in consumer buying habits, exemplified by a challenging January for the hospitality sector, adds to the narrative of subdued spending. Moreover, HMRC continues to be more active, with threatened enforcement pushing businesses towards considering their options, and many opting for administration as an alternative to being wound up on a compulsory basis. “The global stage, marked by geopolitical tensions in Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Gaza, contributes to economic uncertainty and suppressed growth. Businesses reliant on imports face increased outlays, as shipping companies opt to avoid the dangers of the Suez Canal and seek to pass on the extra costs of transport to customers. “Many predict the rate of inflation to continue its downward trajectory in 2024, perhaps even approaching Bank of England’s target of 2%. If that trend continues one might anticipate something like three interest rate cuts in 2024, which will hopefully stimulate growth. However, the economic landscape remains unpredictable, and our advice remains consistent – seeking professional advice early can open up more options for struggling businesses. “It is crucial not to ignore the signs and bury your head in the sand and instead, take a proactive approach to address underlying issues. By doing so, businesses can better navigate the tough trading conditions and increase their chances of survival.” Businesses filing for administration per year By sector 2023 2022 By region 2023 2022 Administrative 26 24 British Isles 12 3 Agriculture 7 10 East Midlands 130 74 Arts and entertainment 68 21 East of England 118 94 Automotive/transportation 87 72 Greater London 364 265 Construction 200 208 North East 61 50 Education 16 4 North West 231 212 Engineering 31 35 Northern Ireland 9 18 Financial 75 79 Scotland 63 59 Health and social 74 66 South East 205 213 Hospitality 190 140 South West 119 68 Information and communication 87 55 Wales 31 48 Manufacturing 186 174 West Midlands 139 101 Mining and quarrying 7 10 Yorkshire & The Humber 159 135 Others 7 10 Professional services 64 90 Public admin and defence 16 7 Real estate 155 95 Retail 239 138 Utilities 73 61 Total 1,641 1,340 Total 1,641 1,340 Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Balfour Beatty today announces that it has been appointed by Hub South East to deliver two new primary schools, valued at £43 million, in East Lothian, Scotland. Balfour Beatty will be responsible for the design and construction of the two new primary schools, located in Craighall and Blindwells, which will house state-of-the-art, modern teaching facilities and learning spaces for over 840 students. The primary schools are required to meet demand from ongoing and planned house building in the local area, and on completion, will support East Lothian Council’s vision to develop a modern, safe, sustainable learning estate that enhances and supports communities whilst improving the lives of families. The primary schools will be constructed using Passivhaus principles – a quality assurance process for the design and construction of low energy buildings – and will utilise high-performance windows and doors as well as mechanical ventilation with heat recovery to reduce carbon emissions, improve indoor air quality and reduce energy demand and heating bills. In addition, as part of its commitment to leaving a lasting, positive legacy in the communities in which it operates, Balfour Beatty has committed to provide at least 20 employment opportunities for local people, as well as deliver a number of employability workshops, including drone and virtual reality sessions, at nearby schools and colleges. Hector MacAulay MBE, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty’s regional construction business in Scotland, said: “This latest contract award is testament to our expertise and experience in delivering high-quality, sustainable educational facilities in Scotland and our proven track record of giving back to local communities. “We look forward to working closely and collaboratively alongside Hub South East and East Lothian Council, to successfully deliver these new schools which will provide an exciting and inspirational learning environment for hundreds of children.” Construction is due to commence next month with completion expected in 2025. At construction peak, Balfour Beatty will employ 200 people with 5% of its workforce made up of apprentices, graduates and trainees to support its commitment to The 5% Club. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In the realm of design, one cannot underestimate the significance of artwork. It possesses the ability to infuse life and character into any space, elevating it from ordinary to extraordinary. While there is an abundance of choices when it comes to selecting art for your walls, custom wall art stands out as a design option that leaves an impression. In this post, we will delve into the impact of wall art on interiors, exploring its advantages and why numerous designers and homeowners are gravitating towards specially tailored artwork. Uniqueness Tailored to You One of the benefits of print on demand wall art lies in its ability to provide personalization. When you opt for a piece specifically created for your space, you are curating an atmosphere that reflects your taste and style. By collaborating with an artist or designer to craft artwork, you have control over aspects such as color palettes, themes, and even specific elements you desire to incorporate. Moreover, personalized artwork not only serves as an expression of your personality but also offers a sense of exclusivity. Custom wall art has become increasingly popular in both homes and commercial spaces. While generic prints are common, opting for custom pieces allows you to showcase your vision and stand out from the crowd. Enhancing the Aesthetics The impact of custom artwork on aesthetics is undeniable. Instead of settling for mass-produced pieces, tailored artwork can elevate the appeal of any interior. Whether it’s adding colors to bring energy or creating an atmosphere with muted tones, customized art can perfectly complement existing decor or become the focal point that ties everything together. Furthermore, artists who create bespoke artwork consider factors like scale and composition to ensure their work seamlessly fits within a given space. This results in an integration between the art and its surroundings, effectively enhancing aesthetics. Creating Conversation Starters One of the advantages of having custom artwork on your walls is that it creates conversation starters. Intriguing compositions, thought-provoking messages, or creative use of materials can engage viewers. Just picture guests walking into your home or clients entering your office being greeted by bespoke artwork—it immediately sparks their curiosity and opens up opportunities for meaningful dialogue. Moreover, when you have the ability to share the story behind the creation of artwork you can bring an added layer of depth and intrigue to your living space. Supporting Local Artists Choosing custom wall art is not about personalization and aesthetics but about supporting local artists. By collaborating with artists in your community or independent creatives, you contribute to their growth and sustainability as craftsmen. Custom commissions not only provide artists with an avenue for expression but also offer them valuable exposure. This mutual support fosters relationships between designers, homeowners, and artists—a fusion of creativity within the local community. Maximizing Versatility: Custom Wall Art in Design Styles Custom wall art possesses the versatility to adapt flawlessly to diverse design styles. Whether your space embodies minimalism, classic elegance, or eclectic uniqueness, tailor-made artwork can seamlessly integrate into any aesthetic. In spaces characterized by lines and a focus on simplicity, custom wall art can serve as a striking focal point. The utilization of geometric designs in colors adds visual interest and injects personality into minimalist interiors. For those who appreciate timeless sophistication, custom wall art offers the opportunity to create a sense of elegance. When it comes to design, incorporating wall art that reflects motifs and techniques can add a touch of elegance. By using details and rich textures, it complements furniture and fabrics, creating captivating spaces that leave a lasting impression. In conclusion, wall art holds importance in design. Customized wall art takes this concept to another level by offering personalization options. It enhances aesthetics, sparks conversations, and supports artists. These unique benefits make custom artwork a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to add character and exclusivity to their homes or commercial spaces. So why settle for the ordinary when you can embrace the impact of customized wall art in your interiors today?
Landsec has acquired a 92% stake in Liverpool ONE, one of the UK’s leading retail and leisure destinations, for a total of £490 million. The deal was struck with a subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), which held a 69% share, and Grosvenor, which owned 23%. Of the total purchase price, £35 million due to ADIA has been deferred for two years. This acquisition aligns with Landsec’s strategy of focusing on major retail destinations. The company has recycled £464 million from non-core sales earlier this year to fund the purchase. With Liverpool ONE added to its portfolio, Landsec now owns and manages seven of the UK’s top 30 shopping centres. Opened in 2008, Liverpool ONE is a flagship destination offering a mix of retail, dining, and leisure experiences. Attracting an annual footfall of 22 million people, the centre has demonstrated strong performance, with retail sales rising by 5% in the past year. New leases have been signed at 10% above estimated rental values, while relettings and renewals are achieving 5% above previous rents. The centre maintains a robust occupancy rate of 96%. Landsec is set to assume full management of Liverpool ONE from Grosvenor in February 2025. Mark Allan, CEO of Landsec, commented:“The top 1% of the UK’s shopping destinations capture 30% of all in-store retail spend, which is why we’re seeing brands prioritise fewer but larger stores in the best locations. Liverpool ONE is a top-ten destination with an excellent return profile, and its addition strengthens our unique portfolio of seven top-30 centres in the UK. We’re excited to build on Liverpool ONE’s success with our operating platform and help drive its future growth.” James Raynor, CEO of Grosvenor Property UK, added:“Liverpool ONE is a phenomenal destination and a testament to what long-term investment and partnership can achieve. Over the past 25 years, it’s become one of the UK’s most successful retail and leisure hubs. Under Landsec’s unified ownership and management, we’re confident it will continue to thrive. “We plan to reinvest the proceeds into our core portfolio, including a 10-year investment programme in London and our residential debt business, which has already supported the delivery of 3,370 homes in two years.” In a statement last month, Landsec reiterated its confidence in the retail sector, citing “most attractive” returns in retail and its intention to further deploy capital into this space. This acquisition solidifies Landsec’s position as a major player in the UK’s retail landscape, with Liverpool ONE set to play a pivotal role in its growth strategy. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
We will be sharing, news, reviews and features in the New Year Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Glenigan’s December Review indicates a pick-up in momentum as economic certainty starts to return Yesterday, Glenigan, one of the construction industry’s leading insight and intelligence experts, releases the December 2024 edition of its Construction Review. This Review focuses on the three months to the end of November 2024, covering all major (>£100m) and underlying (<100m) projects, with all underlying figures seasonally adjusted. It’s a report which provides a detailed and comprehensive analysis of year-on-year construction data, giving built environment professionals a unique insight into sector performance over the last 12 months. The latest data paints a generally positive picture. Project-starts and main contract awards showed promising year-on-year growth, highlighting returning socioeconomic stability after an extended period of market uncertainty. However, tempering these activity boosts, detailed planning approvals suffered a significant decline, indicating that persistent cost pressures and dented industry confidence continue to hinder sector-wide revival. Commenting on the December Review, Allan Wilen, Economic Director at Glenigan, says “There’s definitely work to be done and the latest figures show glimmers of recovery, with modest growth in project-starts and contract awards offering a degree of optimism. The Autumn Statement and some of the immediate actions taken by the Government to kickstart building in some verticals, particularly housebuilding will have helped. However, the sharp decline in detailed planning approvals highlights investors will be keeping their powder dry until more stability returns to the market, inspiring the confidence needed to turn on the development pipeline tap. “In line with our Forecast predictions, H.1 2025 will unlikely see significant growth, however, H.2 will likely see a sudden spurt, following the Government’s Spring Spending Review and sector-specific strategic announcements. A sustained focus on public infrastructure, health, and housing projects will be critical to driving recovery in 2025 and beyond. The industry will be watching closely to see how these fiscal policies and investment commitments translate into on-the-ground activity.” Underlying Sector Analysis – Residential The Review period was relatively stable for residential construction, with project-starts falling 1% against the preceding three months to stand 6% lower than a year ago. Private housing construction-starts were largely responsible for the decline, falling by 3% against the preceding three months and by 1% compared with last year. However, this was balanced out by social housing-starts which increased 4% during the three months to November, despite coming in 20% down on the year before. Underlying Sector Analysis – Non-Residential Overall, non-residential performance rallied during the Index period, with starts up against both the previous quarter and last year. Hotel & Leisure experienced a strong period, with starts increasing 37% against the preceding three months to stand 71% up on the same time a year ago. Education project-starts also grew, rising 31% against the preceding three months and increasing 29% against the previous year. Offices had a good period, with the value of underlying project-starts increasing 24% against the preceding three months and standing 2% up on a year ago. Industrial project-start performance was dismal, suffering a 22% fall during the three months to November to stand 4% lower than a year ago. Community & amenity also fared poorly, with the value of project-starts falling back 14% against the preceding three months and 15% against the previous year. Civils growth was poor, with starts decreasing 17% against the preceding three months and remaining flat against the year before. This was boosted slightly by infrastructure activity, with starts increasing by 1% against the preceding three months and by 36% on a year ago. Utilities starts didn’t perform well, declining 41% against the preceding three months to stand 34% down against the previous year. To find out more about Glenigan and its construction intelligence services click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
BOOSTING regional regeneration efforts, work has commenced on the redevelopment of previously derelict railway arches in Greater Manchester, which will be transformed into new destinations for food and drink, leisure and retail businesses. The arches on Norton Street, Salford, are located in Greengate, an area of the city currently experiencing a period of intensive development activity and growth. The scheme forms part of Project 1000, The Arch Company’s £200m plan to bring a thousand empty or derelict spaces into use across England and Wales by 2030. Multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard is behind the project on Norton Street, delivering mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP), and civil and structural engineering services in partnership with Stephen George + Partners (SGP), operating closely with main contractor Triton Construction. Improvements will include new glazed frontages, new services and drainage, and an internal lining to make the spaces dry and ready for occupation. Matt Barron, associate structural engineer at Pick Everard, said: “After investigating the existing arch structures and local ground conditions, we developed a structural design and drainage scheme. “Our building services team then coordinated with utility providers to provide sufficient utility connections to the new development, and has designed the necessary ventilation, power and lighting solutions for the new arch fitouts. “We look forward to seeing the completion of this project and its contribution to the regeneration of the local area.” SGP studio director, Alan Soper, said: “We are excited to see work commence on thetransformation of these historic arch structures on Norton Street into spaces for businesses to develop and thrive. “The development is located in a key area of regeneration and renewal within Greater Manchester and The Arch Company’s investment will help to create a vibrant destination for Salford’s new neighbourhoods, while also supporting local businesses and the wider community.” The design for the scheme also incorporates high-quality materials that will generate an attractive appearance to the elevations on Norton Street, creating a ‘street’ of arches that will appeal to potential occupiers in the current marketplace. Danny Joss, director of capital programmes at The Arch Company, added: “We are really pleased to be investing in transforming these arches. We anticipate strong demand given their location, and we look forward to seeing new businesses move in, supporting the local economy and creating jobs for this growing community.” Norton Street is just one of several projects Pick Everard has worked on with The Arch Company. Other projects include the regeneration of four dilapidated railway arches on America Street in Southwark to deliver vibrant new spaces for restaurants, cafés, bars, and other leisure businesses, as well as the transformation of six vacant railway arches on Witan Street, in Bethnal Green, to create a range of new commercial spaces. Pick Everard also worked with The Arch Company on the redevelopment of ten derelict railway arches on Corporation Street in Manchester. To view the full range of services Pick Everard provides, please visit www.pickeverard.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals