Kenneth Booth
Unite Students plans to redevelop landmark property

Unite Students plans to redevelop landmark property

The new development, which will replace Mercury Point in Duke Street, will be an exciting addition to the city’s skyline, with 810 beds across two blocks connected by an elevated outdoor terrace. The increase in beds from the current 560 beds will provide the city with much-needed purpose-built student housing,

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Legal & General announces sale of CALA Group

Legal & General announces sale of CALA Group

Legal & General Group Plc (“Legal & General” or “L&G” or the “Group”) yesterday announced that it has agreed the sale of the UK house builder CALA Group (“Cala”) for an enterprise value of £1.35bn, to Ferguson Bidco Limited, an entity owned by funds managed by Sixth Street Partners and

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State-of-the-art leisure centre providing adult support services recognised with prestigious diversity accolade

State-of-the-art leisure centre providing adult support services recognised with prestigious diversity accolade

A new vibrant leisure centre in Bearsden near Glasgow has scooped the gold ‘Diversity in the Public Sector’ award at The Herald and GenAnalytics’ 2024 Diversity Awards Scotland, which honours innovative projects promoting diversity and inclusion in Scotland. The architect behind the community centre’s design, Holmes Miller, has been recognised

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INTERNATIONAL insurance intermediary group Howden has unveiled its new office at The Avebury in Milton Keynes, thanks to workplace design and build specialist ODCreate. The near-30,000 sq ft project – which will complete later this year and is ODCreate’s biggest to date in terms of floorspace – has been designed around the business’ hybrid working model, with flexible and agile spaces that cater for both collaborative and individual working. Modelled on Howden’s main headquarters in London, the newly refurbished facility will also feature a large servery and café on-site, with an attractive food offering for staff and visitors alike. Erika Linghorn, who led the project for ODCreate, said: “This project is an excellent example of collaboration between client and designer, bringing together elements of Howden’s London headquarters with the unique qualities of The Avebury and the opportunities that brings. “The key factors in the brief for this project were to create a “destination” office to welcome and inspire in equal measure, as well as being able to adapt to changing working practices such as hybrid and collaborative working. “The Avebury represents the largest project ODCreate has ever undertaken as we look to expand our design and build portfolio - and we believe that the results will speak for themselves.” ODCreate is working alongside Savills as project manager and Fanshawe as cost consultant. The wider ODGroup has worked on the site of The Avebury previously, with ODInteriors undertaking the base build refurbishment of the former Avebury House before ODCreate was appointed to work on the client design and fitout for Howden Insurance. The 28,000 sq ft office space is one of several major projects recently completed by ODCreate, including ones for clients in the financial, legal and food and beverage office sectors. For more information, visit od-group.com

ODcreate delivers biggest project to date for major insurance broker

INTERNATIONAL insurance intermediary group Howden has unveiled its new office at The Avebury in Milton Keynes, thanks to workplace design and build specialist ODCreate. The near-30,000 sq ft project – which will complete later this year and is ODCreate’s biggest to date in terms of floorspace – has been designed

Read More »
How a FinOps strategy maximises cloud cost efficiency

How a FinOps strategy maximises cloud cost efficiency

How leveraging cloud service plans and auditing resources can significantly reduce cloud costs in the construction industry In 2024, the UK construction industry has seen a significant increase in financial distress. Begbies Traynor reports that construction remains the sector with the highest insolvency rates, with nearly one-fifth of all business

Read More »
Facilities Management guide to controlling Legionella Risk

Facilities Management guide to controlling Legionella Risk

Written by Water Hygiene Centre As a Facilities Management company what are your responsibilities when it comes to the control of waterborne pathogens such as legionella (amongst others)? Well, it may be as simple as what is written in the contract you have from your water hygiene company describing delivery

Read More »
Transforming UK Retrofit delivery models: New report calls for urgent clarity and coordination

Transforming UK Retrofit delivery models: New report calls for urgent clarity and coordination

A new report from the National Retrofit Hub (NRH) has unveiled a fragmented and inconsistent landscape of retrofit delivery models across the UK. This comprehensive review urges immediate action to streamline processes, clarify intended outcomes, and establish consistent measurement methods for implemented retrofits to track progress and drive future improvements.

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Latest Issue
Issue 339 : Apr 2026

Kenneth Booth

Unite Students plans to redevelop landmark property

Unite Students plans to redevelop landmark property

The new development, which will replace Mercury Point in Duke Street, will be an exciting addition to the city’s skyline, with 810 beds across two blocks connected by an elevated outdoor terrace. The increase in beds from the current 560 beds will provide the city with much-needed purpose-built student housing, freeing up privately rented homes. To enhance the student living experience, Unite Students has invested £90million over the past year to upgrade properties across its portfolio and improve service levels, and this continues to be a key priority. In July, the business raised a further £450million from investors to help fund new developments and refurbishments of its existing portfolio. Unite Students considered several options, including a renovation of the existing building, and has taken the decision to redevelop the property and close it to students from summer 2025, once this year’s residents have checked out. The new property will fully adhere to Unite Students’ sustainable construction framework, which aims to achieve net-zero carbon in construction and operation. The scheme will aim to achieve a BREEAM Excellent sustainable building certification and include solar panels to generate renewal energy, air-source heat pumps for heating and hot water, and high-performance glazing to help reduce thermal losses. Tom Brewerton, Group Development Director at Unite Students, said: “We’re excited about the planned redevelopment works at one of our key properties in Southampton as we work to continuously improve the student experience across our portfolio. We’ve worked closely in consultation with the council, the local community and Southampton University to develop these plans. “We’re trusted by parents, students and universities to provide high-quality, safe and affordable accommodation and the planned increase in bed numbers will help free up privately rented homes in the city for families.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Legal & General announces sale of CALA Group

Legal & General announces sale of CALA Group

Legal & General Group Plc (“Legal & General” or “L&G” or the “Group”) yesterday announced that it has agreed the sale of the UK house builder CALA Group (“Cala”) for an enterprise value of £1.35bn, to Ferguson Bidco Limited, an entity owned by funds managed by Sixth Street Partners and Patron Capital. The consideration for the sale will result in cash proceeds of £1.16bn (after adjustment for net debt), of which c£500m will be paid at closing with the remaining consideration being paid over the next five years on a deferred non-contingent basis. As at HY24, Cala had a Net Asset Value of £1.15bn and generated operating profits of £42m. The disposal reflects L&G’s disciplined approach to capital allocation and follows the Group’s decision to create a Corporate Investments Unit as outlined at the Capital Markets Event (“CME”) in June 2024. Disposal proceeds from the sale will primarily be used, as they become available, to reinvest in the Group in line with our strategy and the capital allocation framework set out at the CME. The Board will also consider the proceeds as part of the Group’s announced intention to increase returns to shareholders through ongoing buybacks. As signalled, the sale of Cala reduces the Group’s Solvency Capital Requirement (SCR) by c£100m after diversification. The transaction is expected to complete in Q4 2024. António Simões, Group Chief Executive Officer of Legal & General said: “This transaction demonstrates continued momentum in executing our strategy, simplifying our portfolio to enable a sharper focus on our core, synergistic businesses. Cala has been an important part of L&G for over a decade, with profits increasing ten-fold since our initial investment in 20131. The sale announced today will provide capital to deliver our strategic goals of sustainable growth alongside enhanced returns for shareholders. I would like to thank the whole Cala team for their contribution to the Group and wish them every success in the future.” Kevin Whitaker, CEO of Cala said: “Today’s announcement is excellent news for Cala. The acquisition by Sixth Street Partners and Patron Capital demonstrates confidence in Cala’s business plan and growth potential, as our talented team continues to build high quality, sustainable new homes throughout the UK. L&G has been a great support to Cala throughout its investment and ownership. Since 2013, we have grown revenues and profits five- and ten-fold respectively, and tripled the number of homes we build each year.” Julian Salisbury, Co-Chief Investment Officer of Sixth Street, said: “Cala has a bright future and we are proud to be entering this new chapter as stewards of a company with such a deep history and long track record of sustainable growth. We, together with Patron Capital, look forward to continuing to support Cala and its management team, not only with capital but also with the significant resources of our London-based real estate investment team led by Giulio Passanisi.” Keith Breslauer, Managing Director of Patron Capital, said: “We are pleased to be able to back the Cala business once again. Cala is one of the UK’s leading housebuilders with a best-in-class landbank and a focus on building high-quality homes, being consistently ranked five-star for customer service. Furthermore, Cala is also a people business with a strong corporate culture and a business we know well, and we look forward to working closely with Cala’s impressive management team and our partner, Sixth Street, to further build the business and help tackle the undersupply of homes in the UK.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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State-of-the-art leisure centre providing adult support services recognised with prestigious diversity accolade

State-of-the-art leisure centre providing adult support services recognised with prestigious diversity accolade

A new vibrant leisure centre in Bearsden near Glasgow has scooped the gold ‘Diversity in the Public Sector’ award at The Herald and GenAnalytics’ 2024 Diversity Awards Scotland, which honours innovative projects promoting diversity and inclusion in Scotland. The architect behind the community centre’s design, Holmes Miller, has been recognised for exceeding public sector standards to fully address the needs of diverse community members. The much admired £42.5m Allander Leisure Centre was designed by Holmes Miller in partnership with East Dunbartonshire Council to replace the original Allander sports complex. Enhancing community wellbeing, the recreational hub offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool with spa facilities, a hydrotherapy pool, a gym and fitness areas, an eight-court games hall, two squash courts, a café, and a state-of-the-art sports dome featuring tennis courts and football pitches. The centre also provides inclusive services for adults with learning disabilities and has been praised for its positive impact which extends across the local population, particularly benefiting individuals with learning disabilities. Treatment rooms dedicated to dementia care, rebound therapy, sensory therapy, and physiotherapy have been incorporated into the facility, in addition to training kitchens and designated spaces to enjoy arts and crafts, music and dance. The 2024 Diversity Awards Scotland ceremony took place at the Radisson Blu Glasgow, bringing industry leaders together to celebrate trailblazing facilities that are driving positive change across the country. Ian Cooney, Project Director at Holmes Miller, said: “Designing spaces with diversity and inclusion at their core is essential for building positive relationships. Many outdated community facilities are no longer fit for purpose, and we’re proud to be part of the change, working closely with public authorities to provide better opportunities for those who need them most. “By combining leisure and adult care services, Allander Leisure Centre ensures everyone has access to the high-quality amenities necessary for their health and wellbeing. We’re thrilled that this standout project has been recognised for truly impacting local lives, and we look forward to its continued success in the years ahead.” David Kelly, Allander Operations Manager, East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture, said: “In this time of austerity, the design of health and wellbeing facilities needs to continue to adapt and evolve to ensure local authorities can provide good value for their communities. We’ve combined two tired and energy hungry existing facilities and created an efficient and sustainable integrated community hub that serves everyone in the area. “The new Allander delivers flexible facilities that will give local people an exceptional quality of experience, both now and in the future.” Joanne Hemmings, Associate at Holmes Miller, said: “Winning the Diversity Awards Scotland is an incredible honour. Our team has poured their passion into creating a vibrant leisure facility where everyone feels welcome. This project showcases how thoughtful architectural design can strengthen community spirit and provide a space for all to enjoy.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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INTERNATIONAL insurance intermediary group Howden has unveiled its new office at The Avebury in Milton Keynes, thanks to workplace design and build specialist ODCreate. The near-30,000 sq ft project – which will complete later this year and is ODCreate’s biggest to date in terms of floorspace – has been designed around the business’ hybrid working model, with flexible and agile spaces that cater for both collaborative and individual working. Modelled on Howden’s main headquarters in London, the newly refurbished facility will also feature a large servery and café on-site, with an attractive food offering for staff and visitors alike. Erika Linghorn, who led the project for ODCreate, said: “This project is an excellent example of collaboration between client and designer, bringing together elements of Howden’s London headquarters with the unique qualities of The Avebury and the opportunities that brings. “The key factors in the brief for this project were to create a “destination” office to welcome and inspire in equal measure, as well as being able to adapt to changing working practices such as hybrid and collaborative working. “The Avebury represents the largest project ODCreate has ever undertaken as we look to expand our design and build portfolio - and we believe that the results will speak for themselves.” ODCreate is working alongside Savills as project manager and Fanshawe as cost consultant. The wider ODGroup has worked on the site of The Avebury previously, with ODInteriors undertaking the base build refurbishment of the former Avebury House before ODCreate was appointed to work on the client design and fitout for Howden Insurance. The 28,000 sq ft office space is one of several major projects recently completed by ODCreate, including ones for clients in the financial, legal and food and beverage office sectors. For more information, visit od-group.com

ODcreate delivers biggest project to date for major insurance broker

INTERNATIONAL insurance intermediary group Howden has unveiled its new office at The Avebury in Milton Keynes, thanks to workplace design and build specialist ODCreate. The near-30,000 sq ft project – which will complete later this year and is ODCreate’s biggest to date in terms of floorspace – has been designed around the business’ hybrid working model, with flexible and agile spaces that cater for both collaborative and individual working. Modelled on Howden’s main headquarters in London, the newly refurbished facility will also feature a large servery and café on-site, with an attractive food offering for staff and visitors alike. Erika Linghorn, who led the project for ODCreate, said: “This project is an excellent example of collaboration between client and designer, bringing together elements of Howden’s London headquarters with the unique qualities of The Avebury and the opportunities that brings. “The key factors in the brief for this project were to create a “destination” office to welcome and inspire in equal measure, as well as being able to adapt to changing working practices such as hybrid and collaborative working. “The Avebury represents the largest project ODCreate has ever undertaken as we look to expand our design and build portfolio – and we believe that the results will speak for themselves.” ODCreate is working alongside Savills as project manager and Fanshawe as cost consultant. The wider ODGroup has worked on the site of The Avebury previously, with ODInteriors undertaking the base build refurbishment of the former Avebury House before ODCreate was appointed to work on the client design and fitout for Howden Insurance. The 28,000 sq ft office space is one of several major projects recently completed by ODCreate, including ones for clients in the financial, legal and food and beverage office sectors. For more information, visit od-group.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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How a FinOps strategy maximises cloud cost efficiency

How a FinOps strategy maximises cloud cost efficiency

How leveraging cloud service plans and auditing resources can significantly reduce cloud costs in the construction industry In 2024, the UK construction industry has seen a significant increase in financial distress. Begbies Traynor reports that construction remains the sector with the highest insolvency rates, with nearly one-fifth of all business failures occurring within construction. With this, it is becoming more important for companies in the construction sector to optimise their finances. The use of cloud computing is one area where many businesses are paying more than they need to. Here, Adam Weldon-Ming, head of professional services at cloud financial operations provider OryxAlign, discusses the different methods businesses can use to optimise their cloud usage for cost efficiency. Cloud optimisation falls under FinOps (Financial Operations) and focuses on managing and optimising the costs associated with using cloud computing resources. By analysing resources, construction companies can gain insight on the cloud costs for each department or cost centre. FinOps also explores strategies to reduce costs, such as identifying servers that can be turned off during non-operational hours or leveraging Microsoft Azure cost-saving plans like reserved instances. Tagging and resource allocation Applying proper tagging and categorisation to cloud resources – such as compute instances, storage, and databases ­­– can help allocate costs accurately to different departments, projects, or teams. This allows for better cost allocation, accountability, and cost optimisation based on specific business needs. For example, compute instances can be split by department, with tags like “Site_VM,” “Projects_VM,” and “Engineering_VM,” providing insights into department-specific costs. The company can then analyse the usage patterns and optimise its resources. If certain compute instances consistently experience low utilisation, they can be rightsized to match actual demand, eliminating unnecessary expenses. Demand-based flexibility Cloud platforms like Azure include options such as auto-scaling and flexible scaling sets to ensure that servers are only used when needed. Auto-scaling in Azure refers to the automatic adjustment of compute resources based on the workload demand. It allows organisations to dynamically scale their applications and infrastructure up or down to match the system’s changing needs. Flexible Scaling Sets, or Azure Virtual Machine Scale Sets (VMSS), enable the deployment and management of a group of identical virtual machines (VMs) as a single entity. VMSS supports auto-scaling, allowing organisations to scale the number of VM instances within the set automatically. It ensures  the required capacity is available during high-demand periods and reduces costs during low-demand periods. Similarly, Amazon’s AWS offers Elastic Load Balancing (ELB). This automatically distributes incoming traffic across multiple instances or resources, ensuring the load is evenly distributed. It helps improve your applications’ availability and fault tolerance by automatically scaling the number of instances behind the load balancer based on traffic patterns. Another option that provides flexible scaling is Azure Functions, a serverless computing service. It enables developers to build and run event-driven functions that scale automatically, without requiring underlying infrastructure management. Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS): Offered by all major cloud providers, PaaS is a cloud computing model that provides a ready-to-use platform for developing, deploying, and managing applications without worrying about underlying infrastructure. With PaaS, developers can focus on writing code and building applications, while the cloud provider takes care of the servers, storage, networking, and operating systems. Pricing model analysis Although the names of pricing models might differ, cloud service providers offer different options, such as pay-as-you-go, reserved instances, or spot instances. Reserved Instances, for example, allow users to reserve cloud computing capacity in advance, typically for a one- or three-year term. Reserving a server for three years can cut the running cost by up to 40 percent compared to on-demand usage. OryxAlign successfully migrated a prominent client to Azure. OryxAlign monitored the infrastructure and implemented scale sets, allowing it to automatically provision new servers when capacity reached 75 per cent. Combining this with purchasing reserved instances for a three-year term resulted in significant cost savings, reducing the client’s annual cloud expenses from between £200,000-£300,000 to around £100,000. By partnering with a trusted advisor that can help to navigate the cloud landscape, companies can avoid wasting money on their cloud costs by analysing resource usage, implementing cost reduction strategies, and leveraging features like auto-scaling and load balancing. As businesses increasingly adopt multi-cloud strategies, the importance of effective multi cloud cost management cannot be overstated. Leveraging advanced platforms that offer centralized visibility and automated resource management can significantly enhance cost efficiency. You can find out how much you could save through cloud optimisation by contacting OryxAlign through its website www.oryxalign.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Facilities Management guide to controlling Legionella Risk

Facilities Management guide to controlling Legionella Risk

Written by Water Hygiene Centre As a Facilities Management company what are your responsibilities when it comes to the control of waterborne pathogens such as legionella (amongst others)? Well, it may be as simple as what is written in the contract you have from your water hygiene company describing delivery of certain tasks, but is that it? In short no, there are many other tasks that you are required to do that don’t always get directly specified but without which you cannot provide any assurance that you have fulfilled your side of the contract.  In this blog we talk about some of these, sometimes hidden tasks, as well as what is included in any contracts you have. Legionella Control – where to start? To start with it is very important to ensure you understand exactly what you are being asked to do, if there are areas of ambiguity these should be resolved before you start the contract. If your organisation is a member of the Legionella Control Association the first commitment you make is to ensure that your clients are aware of their obligations under ACoP L8, HSG 274 and any other applicable guidance, such as (S)HTM 04-01 or (S)HTM 01-05. A clear and concise document should be produced confirming who is responsible for carrying out each task so that nothing is missed. If you employ Water Treatment / Water Hygiene companies to help you deliver part of the works, they too should be named in this document. Prior to starting works, the next priority is agreeing the method for completing each task and providing evidence the works are going to be completed by competent staff. On many occasions we find that some basic Legionella training has been completed by staff (whether they are directly employed by you or by a sub-contractor) but with no evidence of competence. The guidance documents use the term “competent” rather than “trained” for a reason, being trained to a standard is important but you need to be able to carry out the work to this standard and in a safe manner. Please ensure you can evidence/records in the event you are inspected by the HSE or any other bodies who deem this necessary. Why should you complete a Water / Legionella Risk Assessment? A Legionella risk assessment for the property should be carried out to identify the assets on site and the pre-planned maintenance that is required. Once the schedule of pre-planned maintenance tasks begins the findings should be reviewed and actions taken if the results fall outside the recommended ranges. A formal review meeting with your client should be held regularly (depending on the risk profile and compliance data) where you are able to discuss the system performance and ensure appropriate works are completed if non-conformances are identified. Obtaining external support for Legionella Risk Assessments and or an Authorising Engineers (Water) provides additional assurance to FM companies that they are doing what is required and highlighting any areas of weakness before any significant failures occur. This also gives the building owner an independent view on performance following the annual Water Hygiene Audit where all measures and results are reviewed in order to provide site with a comprehensive summary of compliance and water safety. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Aldi Unveils Record £800m Investment After Unprecedented Sales Growth

Aldi Unveils Record £800m Investment After Unprecedented Sales Growth

Aldi is set to make its largest-ever annual investment in the UK, following a remarkable surge in sales. The supermarket giant is investing £800 million to expand and refurbish stores across the country, as it continues to strengthen its foothold in the British retail market. The move comes after Aldi reported a 16% boost in sales for 2023, with revenue for the UK and Ireland growing by £2.4 billion, from £15.5 billion in 2022 to £17.9 billion by the end of 2023. Pre-tax profits saw a staggering leap from £152.6 million to £536.7 million, thanks to a combination of record-breaking sales and increased operational efficiencies. Operating profits also grew to £552.9 million, with Aldi achieving a 3.1% profit margin. In response, the discounter has announced plans for an £800 million investment, which will see the opening of 23 new stores and the refurbishment of 100 existing ones before the end of the year. The investment will also be used to expand Aldi’s distribution network and upgrade its technology infrastructure to support its rapid growth. Aldi, currently operating more than 1,000 stores in the UK, aims to increase this number to over 1,500 in the coming years. Giles Hurley, CEO of Aldi UK and Ireland, commented: “British shoppers are voting with their feet and choosing Aldi as their go-to supermarket. We’re responding with our biggest-ever investment, using every £1 of last year’s profit to invest £2 this year. We’re opening more stores, enhancing our infrastructure, and bringing high-quality, affordable groceries to even more families across Britain. “We’re also making record investments to lower prices, reward our fantastic colleagues, and support local communities, all while creating thousands of jobs and providing more opportunities for our growing network of British suppliers and farmers.” In August, Aldi made the decision to discontinue its click-and-collect service, which had been introduced during the pandemic. The move reflects the evolving online grocery market, with online sales shrinking to less than 13%, down from the pandemic peak of around 15%. During the cost-of-living crisis, Aldi surged ahead of Morrisons to become the UK’s fourth-largest supermarket, capitalising on shoppers’ increasing demand for budget-friendly options. However, recent data shows Aldi’s market share has slipped slightly, with the retailer holding 10% of the market in the 12 weeks leading up to 4 August, down by 20 basis points compared to the previous year. Despite this, Aldi’s ambitious expansion and investment strategy suggests the supermarket is well-positioned to maintain its competitive edge and continue attracting shoppers across the UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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BEAM appoints RED Construction Group to deliver Cat A Office refurbishment at Lancelot Place

BEAM appoints RED Construction Group to deliver Cat A Office refurbishment at Lancelot Place 

RED Construction Group, the specialist main contractor, has announced its appointment by Berkeley Estate Asset Management (BEAM) to carry out a comprehensive refurbishment of 8 Lancelot Place in Knightsbridge. Delivering the refurbishment is RED Construction Group’s Special Projects team, which will be undertaking some of the works while office tenants remain operational. Spanning 35,000 sq ft, the prominent office development is located at the corner of 8 Lancelot Place and 70 Brompton Road in Knightsbridge, opposite Grade II listed department store, Harrods. Set to undergo a substantial transformation, RED Special Projects will strip-out the current facilities to deliver a CAT A fit-out, across basement, reception, and levels two to seven. A new entrance, feature garden, glazing, and canopy – as well as refurbishment works to the level six terrace and roof – are also part of the project. MEP throughout will be enhanced, with the offices being served by high-efficiency all-electric systems at completion in line with BEAM’s sustainability requirements. It will also see RED Special Projects carrying out works on the live office building, with current tenants operational on levels two, three, and seven. RED Construction Group’s appointment on 8 Lancelot Place marks its second partnership with BEAM, with 21-25 Bruton Place due to complete Q4 2024, offering a contemporary open plan office space in the heart of Mayfair, alongside first-rate retail on the ground floor. Nathan Farrar, Construction Director at RED Special Projects, commented: “Our team is well versed in delivering complex schemes, and the works required at 8 Lancelot Place – while many of the office tenants remain working as normal – plays to our strengths. BEAM’s decision to partner with RED Construction Group for a second project is testament to the team’s extensive experience in delivering both high-quality office accommodation, and navigating unique and challenging logistics in the heart of London.” The appointment follows RED Special Projects’ delivery of the new hub facilities for Merlin Entertainments, at LEGOLAND Windsor’s £35m Woodland Village. The project has added an on-site restaurant, industrial kitchen, entertainment space consisting of various play areas, and a stage and bar, to the internationally renowned destination. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Bloor Homes advocates wellbeing in construction through Lighthouse Charity Pledge

Bloor Homes advocates wellbeing in construction through Lighthouse Charity Pledge

Bloor Homes has announced it is a company supporter of The Lighthouse Construction Charity, the only charity dedicated to the emotional, physical and financial wellbeing of construction workers and their families. Hannah Burgess, HR Director at Bloor Homes said: “The Lighthouse’s mission is very clear. It shows that every day two construction workers in the UK take their own life, while stress, depression and anxiety accounts for 27% of all work-related illness in the industry. The Charity has set out to reduce the number of construction industry suicides and improve workforce in a number of ways. “As well as its free 24/7 helpline it provides free and accessible key support services for everyone in the industry – and their families – and it addresses the root causes early on, tackling three areas of wellbeing: emotional, physical and financial early on to drive change.” For example, alongside its crucial ‘Get Help Now’ resources, support extends to providing aid to families in crisis from food to financial support, and critical interventions when required. For those struggling physically or financially, The Lighthouse can help on a wider range of issues from requiring occupational health support or struggling with addiction, to debt management and retirement planning. In addition, the Charity is pioneering awareness at all levels across the industry via its Wellbeing Academy. It offers a range of courses designed to promote understanding around people’s own mental health whilst also providing them with the skills and knowledge to look out for colleagues. And The Lighthouse is taking awareness to the frontline of construction through its #makeitvisible campaign, travelling to construction sites around the country to ‘meet the boots on the ground and get them talking’. Hannah continues; “This aspect of the charity’s work really impressed us as it brings it to everyone working on our sites whether they are directly employed, contracted or subcontracted. It’s an all-encompassing approach.  We are looking forward to rolling out a series of dedicated site visits from The Lighthouse in the coming months.” The visits will include a ‘Toolbox Talk’ and the opportunity for a one-to-one chat. Meanwhile Bloor Homes is also ensuring teams across its regional head offices and extended site teams are aware of the Charity and its work by sharing communications with every person working with the developer. By doing so, Bloor Homes aims to create – and reiterate – as many opportunities for people to access as much support as possible, complementing its established Employee Assistance Programme. For more information and to access the wide range of support and engagement available to construction workers and their families visit lighthouseclub.org/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Transforming UK Retrofit delivery models: New report calls for urgent clarity and coordination

Transforming UK Retrofit delivery models: New report calls for urgent clarity and coordination

A new report from the National Retrofit Hub (NRH) has unveiled a fragmented and inconsistent landscape of retrofit delivery models across the UK. This comprehensive review urges immediate action to streamline processes, clarify intended outcomes, and establish consistent measurement methods for implemented retrofits to track progress and drive future improvements. The report, written by the NRH in collaboration with consultants Arup and climate-change charity Ashden, found that disparate models and funding mechanisms create a complex, ‘shifting sands’ scenario, with many delivery methods lacking uniform measurement standards. The report has been created following robust engagement from over 200 stakeholders nationwide. Through collaborative workshops and detailed analysis, including extensive Miro board sessions, the team, in partnership with Ashden and Arup, confirmed the need for consistent measurements as a foundation for setting effective targets. The report highlights four priority areas that the NRH identified as the best opportunities to leverage its network and achieve significant impact. These are: Sara Edmonds, National Retrofit Hub Co-Director, explained: “While there were various perspectives on what should be prioritised, the Hub focused on these areas because they align best with its goals and capabilities.” The review is a wake-up call. The findings show the urgent need for defined measurements to set and achieve meaningful targets. The strong engagement from a diverse range of stakeholders underscores the sector’s readiness to collaborate on these critical improvements. Commenting further on the report, Sara Edmonds, said: “The Working Group invites passionate individuals and organisations to join ongoing efforts to refine and enhance delivery models. Feedback and additional insights are welcomed to ensure the report remains a dynamic and evolving resource. “Our thanks go out to everyone who has contributed so far. This research is a significant step forward, but there’s more to do. We’re excited to continue this journey with the incredible support of our network”. To download the report click here Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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