Kenneth Booth
VINCI Energies acquires Novo Technologies Ltd, one of the leading providers of telecoms infrastructure services in the UK

VINCI Energies acquires Novo Technologies Ltd, one of the leading providers of telecoms infrastructure services in the UK

Established in 2016, Novo Technologies is an independent provider of end-to-end telecoms infrastructure solutions for both Carriers and Enterprise clients, delivering mobile network projects across the UK, with strong relationships across the telecoms and infrastructure sector. Russell CRAMPIN, Perimeter Director, VINCI Energies in the UK & ROI, said: “This acquisition is

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Latimer Launches New Shared Ownership Homes in the Heart of Trafford

Latimer Launches New Shared Ownership Homes in the Heart of Trafford

Latimer at Lumina Village is soon set to launch in Trafford, a new collection of one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom homes available with shared ownership. Launching on 17th April, the development represents Latimer’s continued investment in Manchester’s affordable housing market and offers a rare opportunity to buy with shared ownership

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Costain hits milestone with 1625km of gas pipeline upgraded for Cadent

Costain hits milestone with 1625km of gas pipeline upgraded for Cadent

Continues Costain’s track record of delivering predictably as it upgrades pipeline through to 2029 Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, has marked the completion of five years of its Contract Management Organisation (CMO) contract with Cadent by delivering 1625km of gas main line. Cadent is the UK’s largest gas distribution network

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One Big Idea shortlist revealed as sector’s boldest thinkers spotlighted ahead of UKREIIF 2026

One Big Idea shortlist revealed as sector’s boldest thinkers spotlighted ahead of UKREIIF 2026

The three shortlisted ideas include focuses on the reduction of carbon, supporting the next generation and solving viability gaps for projects WORKING together to uncover the sector’s brightest and boldest ideas, UKREiiF and strategic marketing agency Cartwright have revealed the shortlist for the ‘One Big Idea’ initiative. Nearly 100 entries were received from

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Robertson lands key role in £36m Ashington regeneration scheme

Robertson lands key role in £36m Ashington regeneration scheme

Robertson Construction North East has been appointed to deliver a new cinema and leisure complex in Ashington, marking a major step forward in the £36 million transformation of the Northumberland town centre. The design and build project, located at Portland Park, will see the development of a five-screen cinema alongside

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Latest Issue
Issue 341 : Jun 2026

Kenneth Booth

VINCI Energies acquires Novo Technologies Ltd, one of the leading providers of telecoms infrastructure services in the UK

VINCI Energies acquires Novo Technologies Ltd, one of the leading providers of telecoms infrastructure services in the UK

Established in 2016, Novo Technologies is an independent provider of end-to-end telecoms infrastructure solutions for both Carriers and Enterprise clients, delivering mobile network projects across the UK, with strong relationships across the telecoms and infrastructure sector. Russell CRAMPIN, Perimeter Director, VINCI Energies in the UK & ROI, said: “This acquisition is a core part of our strategic direction over the next three years. As connectivity continues to underpin the digital transformation of businesses’ sites and field-based activity, strengthening our capabilities in wireless infrastructure delivery was a natural next step. I’m delighted to welcome our 71 new colleagues from Novo Technologies into our business. We are confident we can provide an environment that supports personal development, encourages knowledge sharing, and enables us to deliver even greater value to our customers. We look forward to working with the team as we continue to build on the next stage of Novo Technologies’ journey.” Matt WYNNE, Managing Director of Novo Technologies, said: “This marks an important step for us at Novo Technologies. Joining VINCI Energies will give us the scale and capability to respond to the growing demand for projects supporting the UK’s wireless connectivity ambition. Our values as a business aligned fantastically with those of VINCI Energies, which made this a natural fit, providing a strong foundation for aligning our teams and strategy. It also represents a significant opportunity for our people, opening up new doors, opportunities and long-term growth.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Latimer Launches New Shared Ownership Homes in the Heart of Trafford

Latimer Launches New Shared Ownership Homes in the Heart of Trafford

Latimer at Lumina Village is soon set to launch in Trafford, a new collection of one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom homes available with shared ownership. Launching on 17th April, the development represents Latimer’s continued investment in Manchester’s affordable housing market and offers a rare opportunity to buy with shared ownership in a thriving city suburb. Part of a wider regeneration project, Latimer at Lumina Village will host a mix of contemporary apartments and spacious townhouses, designed to suit a variety of buyers, from young professionals to growing families, and will help shape a vibrant new community in the heart of Trafford. Latimer at Lumina Village has been thoughtfully conceived to champion sustainable, sociable living at the vibrant heart of this much-loved pocket of Manchester.  Featuring cycle- and pedestrian-friendly pathways, generous lawns, landscaped gardens and wildflower planting, it offers the ideal setting for homebuyers seeking a greener, more balanced lifestyle within the city. The architecture reflects the area’s traditional red-brick character, with a varied roofline of three, six and seven-storey buildings adding visual interest throughout the development. Positioned directly opposite Emirates Old Trafford cricket ground, Latimer at Lumina Village also provides the perfect location for residents to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of match days and summer events. Tobias Brown, Sales Director for Latimer Homes in the North, comments: “It’s a pleasure to officially launch Latimer at Lumina Village, our latest contribution to affordable homes in Manchester. For many, buying a home in a large city can often feel like making a set of compromises. Lumina Village defies that expectation – at the centre of the Trafford regeneration and with doorstep links to the city centre, this entire development is fully affordable. We’re excited to present such a valuable opportunity for new residents to be a part of a mixed and vibrant neighborhood in an up-and-coming region.” Both the apartments and townhouses at Lumina Village have been crafted to a high-quality specification, with every home designed to maximise light and space. Open-plan kitchen and living spaces flow effortlessly beneath floor-to-ceiling windows, filling each home with natural light and creating bright, welcoming interiors. Selected homes also benefit from private outdoor space, extending living beyond the indoors.  Kitchens feature sleek laminated worktops and integrated appliances, including ovens, fridges and freezers, while bathrooms are finished with contemporary, luxury tiling. These refined, practical spaces enhance the generous living areas, offering the perfect balance of comfort, flexibility and effortless entertaining. Latimer at Lumina Village offers homebuyers the opportunity to buy a share of a property, starting at 40%, with a much smaller deposit than would be required at open-market value. Homeowners then pay subsidised rent on the rest of the property, with the option to staircase their ownership and buy more shares at their own pace. This offers a chance for buyers to secure a home without a large deposit, providing a more affordable route onto Manchester’s property ladder. As part of the wider Old Trafford Regeneration Project which includes major investment in new homes, public spaces and infrastructure alongside plans for a world‑class Manchester United stadium, residents here will benefit from a revitalised, future‑focused district. The transformation will bring long‑term growth, improved transport connections and community‑led amenities to the area. Homes at Lumina Village offer the ideal balance between green, open space and vibrant city living. The development is surrounded by well‑landscaped parks, including nearby Longford Park, home to the popular Stretford Saturday Parkrun. For longer scenic walks and weekend activities, residents can head to Chorlton just a few minutes’ drive away, with its beautiful nature reserve and two expansive water parks.  At the same time, some of Manchester’s best restaurants, bars and independent cafés are within easy reach, placing the energy of the city’s thriving food and drink scene right on your doorstep. Latimer at Lumina Village also sits at the centre of a buzzing entertainment scene. Sports fans are moments from world‑class action, with Manchester United’s Old Trafford Stadium close by. Directly opposite, Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground brings a lively, energetic atmosphere to summer weekends. Culture lovers will feel equally at home, with MediaCity, a major UK hub for media, creative and tech industries just around the corner, and the full breadth of Manchester’s cultural scene within easy reach. The development will appeal to both families and young professionals seeking excellent transport links and strong education options. With the Old Trafford Metrolink stop on the doorstep, residents can reach Deansgate and Manchester Piccadilly stations in approximately 20 and 25 minutes, enabling seamless travel across the city and beyond. The wider Trafford area also has a strong reputation for education, offering highly rated primary and secondary free schools. Just next door is University Academy 92, a pioneering institution offering degrees and courses in sport, business, media and digital studies. Prices at Latimer at Lumina Village start from £89,000 for a 40% share of a one bedroom apartment. Further information can be found at  https://www.latimerhomes.com/new-build-homes/manchester/homes-trafford/lumina Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Costain hits milestone with 1625km of gas pipeline upgraded for Cadent

Costain hits milestone with 1625km of gas pipeline upgraded for Cadent

Continues Costain’s track record of delivering predictably as it upgrades pipeline through to 2029 Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, has marked the completion of five years of its Contract Management Organisation (CMO) contract with Cadent by delivering 1625km of gas main line. Cadent is the UK’s largest gas distribution network managing more than 131,000km of pipes and transporting gas to 11 million customers. Since 2021, Costain has been tasked with upgrading more than 300km of gas mains each year in Cadent’s East of England network.   The progress, which has involved more than 230,000 reinstated excavations and 160,000m3 tonnes of backfill and top material, means that 168,000 homes have now had new gas mains and supplies installed. The upgrades support a more resilient energy network by reducing the risk of supply disruption to households and businesses in the region. Costain has consistently ensured best-in-class results in health and safety, programme management, commercial and operational excellence, and customer satisfaction scores. This strong performance led to Costain in 2024 seeing the initial five-year contract being extended to run to eight years, through to 2029. Alan Cheung, Energy Sector Director at Costain, said: “This is a fantastic milestone that is testament to Costain’s reputation of delivering predictably and efficiently. Over the last five years we have cultivated productive and collaborative working relationships with Cadent and our local supply chain teams, which have enabled us to maintain the highest safety, quality and efficiency standards and achieve record customer satisfaction scores. “As we embark to the next phase of the project, we’ll be working closely with Cadent to ensure this transformative scheme continues to improve the lives of millions of people in the East of England whilst making the UK’s energy system more resilient for future generations.” Victoria Grieve, Network Director for the East of England at Cadent said: “Costain has been a trusted partner to Cadent for years. It is helping us deliver our major investment programme to enhance the gas network, keeping millions of people warm in their homes and supporting the transition to lower-carbon gases.“The last five years have seen the network undergo significant enhancements and this milestone illustrates the collaborative partnership between ourselves, Costain and its supply chain, and we’re excited to continue pressing on with these upgrades together.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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One Big Idea shortlist revealed as sector’s boldest thinkers spotlighted ahead of UKREIIF 2026

One Big Idea shortlist revealed as sector’s boldest thinkers spotlighted ahead of UKREIIF 2026

The three shortlisted ideas include focuses on the reduction of carbon, supporting the next generation and solving viability gaps for projects WORKING together to uncover the sector’s brightest and boldest ideas, UKREiiF and strategic marketing agency Cartwright have revealed the shortlist for the ‘One Big Idea’ initiative. Nearly 100 entries were received from across the built environment, with submissions showcasing exciting new ideas, concepts and ways of thinking. The ‘One Big Idea’ initiative aims to give property and construction specialists the opportunity to make their mark and push the sector forward. It was open to entries from any level of seniority or experience. Making the final shortlist are ideas from Kuram Gwakyaa, head of sustainability for Home Office and MOJ accounts at Mitie; Sally Grindrod-Smith, director of planning regeneration and communities at West Lindsey District Council and Matt Drewitt, architect at the Government Property Agency. The three shortlisted ideas include focuses on the reduction of carbon, supporting the next generation and solving viability gaps for projects. Further insight into the ideas will be shared at the Big Idea Breakfast at UKREiiF on Wednesday 20 May Liz Cartwright, managing director at Cartwright and shortlist judge, said: “Our One Big Idea initiative was created to champion new and purposeful thinking from those in the industry. Across all submissions received there is no doubt that this kind of thinking was showcased in abundance. “Our shortlisted ideas demonstrate not only originality but a true potential to move the industry forward. Each one is not a concept for its own sake but is grounded in real challenges and real opportunities. Offering space for these ideas to flourish is exactly what we here at Cartwright, in partnership with UKREiiF, have set out to do.” The wider judging panel that took on the task of reviewing the ideas submitted and creating a shortlist, included James Bywood, marketing director at UKREiiF; Renee Preston, chief executive officer at Gallaway Construction; Shahi Islam, director of affordable housing at Homes England; and Rory Bates, built environment sector lead at SLR Consulting. The judging criteria was chosen to help highlight the most powerful submissions. This included marking ideas on their creativity and originality, impact and value, and clarity of the idea. Following the Big Idea Breakfast event, Cartwright will also be releasing a ‘One Big Idea’ report for the wider market, telling the stories of the winning entrants and sharing a wider selection of One Big Idea suggestions – including additional insights gathered from its on-site presence at the event. James Bywood, marketing director at UKREiiF said: “UKREiiF has always been a place where ideas on how to grow and better the industry have the space to flourish. One Big Idea is allowing us to take this to the next level and there is no doubt that the results so far have been incredible. All the ideas submitted showcase vital thinking from different levels and experience on how the industry can grow to new heights and it’s safe to say that shortlisting to just three was no easy job. “As the countdown to UKREiiF ticks down, seeing the three shortlisted ideas come to life at the One Big Idea breakfast is one of many parts of those three days in Leeds that our team here are looking forward to most – alongside generating those important conversations that will foster even more ideas for what’s next for the industry.” The initiative forms the newest era of the partnership, as Cartwright takes on the role of official storytelling partner for UKREiiF 2026, as part of a year-round agreement. For more information about Cartwright visit www.cartwrightagency.com or to register for UKREiiF 2026 go to www.ukreiif.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Development Director Ulrike Maccariello to retire from Hastoe after 20-year career at the rural housing specialist

Development Director Ulrike Maccariello to retire from Hastoe after 20-year career at the rural housing specialist

Regional Development Manager Chris Meadows to take reins as new Development Director Ulrike Maccariello will be retiring from Hastoe Housing Association at the end of July, following a distinguished 20-year career at the rural housing specialist that has included serving as Development Director for the last seven years. Chris Meadows, Hastoe’s Regional Development Manager for the West and Sales Manager, will become Development Director at the start of May, to ensure a smooth transition. In other changes to the team, Mike Cramp, currently Regional Development Manager for the East, will become Head of Development, with responsibility for development across all regions; Emily Moss will become Sales Manager; Neil Salisbury, Technical Manager, will now head up Hastoe’s technical quality control team; and a new Development Manager post is being created to cover the South-East, including Hampshire and Sussex.  Andrew Potter, Hastoe CEO, says: “Ulrike has been an integral part of our development team for over 20 years, and for the past seven, she has led as director with unwavering dedication. During her time here, Ulrike has spearheaded our move to high-quality and sustainable rural developments, creating homes for those who need them most and championing rural affordable housing across the sector. Her leadership has left an indelible mark on Hastoe and the communities we serve. “We are fortunate Ulrike has created a skilled and talented development team, and I wish Chris and the rest of his team all the very best as they step into their new challenges.” Ulrike says: “The network of fantastic people I have had the privilege to work with are part of the reason I have stayed at Hastoe for so long. I am enormously grateful for all the opportunities I have had and the partnerships and friendships I have made. Rural housing is a topic that will always remain close to my heart, and I am delighted to see Chris become Development Director, as he has a real passion and enthusiasm for Hastoe and our values. I wish him and the rest of the team lots of success in their new roles.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Why Waste Planning Should Start Before Your Project Gets Complicated

Why Waste Planning Should Start Before Your Project Gets Complicated

If you want a project to run smoothly, you need to think beyond materials, labour, and deadlines. One of the easiest things to underestimate is waste. It sounds minor at first. A few broken materials. Some packaging. A growing pile of offcuts. But once site activity picks up, poor waste planning can start affecting access, productivity, safety, and even the pace of the programme. On projects of almost any size, that becomes a real operational issue, not just a housekeeping one. So, let’s take a look at why waste problems have a habit of becoming much bigger than expected.  Waste Problems Rarely Stay Small You’ve probably seen it happen. A site begins in a controlled way, then clutter starts building in corners, near entrances, beside storage areas, and around working zones. Suddenly, trades are navigating around the mess instead of moving freely through the site. Deliveries become more awkward. Sorting waste becomes reactive. Time gets lost in tiny pockets all day long. That’s why it helps to treat waste like part of your site logistics plan, not something separate from it. When you think ahead about where waste will be created, how quickly it will accumulate, and how often it needs to be removed, you protect the workflow before problems develop. It is less about tidiness for appearance’s sake and more about keeping your site usable. The Right Setup Makes Daily Work Easier Choosing the right waste solution isn’t just about volume. It’s also about access, project type, and the kind of debris you expect to generate. The Waste Group’s Bournemouth service page outlines a range of options from smaller skips to larger containers and roll-on roll-off units, showing how different projects need different approaches. It also notes next-day delivery for orders placed before midday on working days, which can be useful when timelines are tight. Used properly, skip hire can do more than remove rubbish. It can help you create a cleaner working rhythm on-site. Trades spend less time shifting waste out of the way. Storage zones stay clearer. Access points remain usable. That sort of consistency makes a difference over the life of a project. Access Rules Need Attention Early You also need to think about where waste containers will go. If they are placed on private land, the process is usually simpler. If they need to sit on a public road or pavement, permits may be required. The Waste Group states that skips placed on public land in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area need council permission, and that approval can take several working days. That delay may not sound serious on paper, but on a live project, a few missed days can trigger unnecessary disruption. If demolition starts before disposal is properly arranged, you create pressure where there didn’t need to be any. Good Waste Planning Supports the Whole Project You don’t need to be running a huge development for waste planning to matter. Refurbishments, extensions, fit-outs, and commercial upgrades all benefit from early coordination. When you plan disposal as carefully as deliveries and labour, the whole site tends to operate better. And that’s really the point. Waste isn’t a side issue. If you manage it well, you make the rest of the job easier too.

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Robertson lands key role in £36m Ashington regeneration scheme

Robertson lands key role in £36m Ashington regeneration scheme

Robertson Construction North East has been appointed to deliver a new cinema and leisure complex in Ashington, marking a major step forward in the £36 million transformation of the Northumberland town centre. The design and build project, located at Portland Park, will see the development of a five-screen cinema alongside a mix of complementary leisure uses. The scheme includes space for two restaurants and a family-focused ‘competitive socialising’ venue, reflecting a growing trend towards experience-led town centre regeneration. Planning approval for the development was secured last year, with construction now set to begin in the coming months. The project is being delivered by Advance Northumberland on behalf of Northumberland County Council and has been procured via the Procure Partnerships Framework. Once complete, the cinema will be operated by independent operator REEL Cinemas and will serve as the only ‘first run’ cinema between Edinburgh and Blyth. The venue is expected to attract between 125,000 and 157,000 visitors annually, significantly boosting footfall and supporting the town’s wider economic recovery. The development forms part of a broader strategy to reposition Ashington town centre as a vibrant destination for leisure, dining and social activity. By extending activity into the evening and weekend economy, the scheme aims to increase dwell time and encourage greater local spending. Neil Kennedy, regional managing director at Robertson Construction North East, said the project represents an opportunity to deliver meaningful long-term benefits for the community. He highlighted the role of high-quality developments in driving regeneration, supporting local businesses and enhancing the overall appeal of town centres. The scheme is being funded through a combination of public sector investment, including support from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Northumberland County Council and Advance Northumberland. Local stakeholders have welcomed the project as a significant milestone in the town’s regeneration journey. The cinema and leisure complex will complement other recent and planned investments in the area, including new transport infrastructure and education facilities, helping to reinforce Ashington’s position as a growing regional hub. The appointment underlines continued confidence in town centre regeneration projects that prioritise mixed-use, experience-led environments, with construction-led delivery playing a key role in unlocking long-term economic and social value. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Low Carbon Construction plans to deliver one million homes backed by LSE listing

Low Carbon Construction plans to deliver one million homes backed by LSE listing

Low Carbon Construction Plc, a UK-based house manufacturer, has set out plans to deliver large-scale affordable housing across the UK, alongside proposals to pursue a London Stock Exchange listing to support delivery. The combined strategy positions the UK-based house manufacturer at the centre of efforts to address the UK’s housing shortage, at a time when delivery rates continue to fall short of national targets. Data from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government indicates that approximately 196,500 homes were added to England’s housing stock between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, well below the 300,000 homes to meet the Government’s ambition of 1.5 million homes.  Forecasts show that the UK could miss this target by nearly half if current trends continue. The company argues that traditional construction methods alone cannot meet demand due to labour shortages, material constraints and planning delays. Bridgette Farrow, Main Board Director of Low Carbon Construction Plc, said the initiative aims to shift the national conversation from ambition to delivery. “The ambition to build 1.5 million homes reflects the scale of the housing crisis, but the reality is that delivery is already falling behind. Without structural change in how homes are financed, approved and built, the gap will continue to widen. Our model is designed to address that challenge head-on.” The company’s Offsite/Onsite construction system combines factory-manufactured components with coordinated onsite assembly, enabling high-volume housing delivery while maintaining compliance with national technical and environmental standards. Under the proposal, Low Carbon Construction Plc aims to deliver one million affordable homes. The plan proposes between 75 and 100 new large-scale communities nationwide, alongside 100 to 200 smaller urban extensions, supported by up to 1,000 ‘flying assembly factories’ operating concurrently.  These developments would integrate housing with schools, transport infrastructure, employment hubs, renewable energy systems and public open space. The company also proposes that major housing developments be designated as nationally significant projects, enabling faster decision-making through central planning processes to support large-scale delivery. To deliver at this scale, Low Carbon Construction Plc has confirmed plans to pursue a full listing on the London Stock Exchange, unlocking access to private capital and ensuring the delivery of its national housing strategy. The company said that recent reforms to UK listing rules, introduced by the Financial Conduct Authority, have created a more accessible environment for growth companies seeking to raise long-term investment. “The UK needs homes at scale, and that requires capital at scale,” added Bridgette. “Listing on the London Stock Exchange allows us to bring in long-term investors to support the infrastructure, manufacturing and delivery systems needed to make this plan a reality.” The company is currently engaging with IPO sponsors, institutional investors, banks and equity partners to support the next phase of its growth. Low Carbon Construction Plc shared that its housing model meets Technical Housing Standards, Nationally Described Space Standards and Part M of the Building Regulations, while aligning with Future Homes Standard principles and the UK Net Zero Carbon Building Standard. The scale of the challenge is reinforced by wider economic and social data. A report by the Centre for Economics and Business Research, commissioned by Shelter and the National Housing Federation, highlights the broader economic case for large-scale housing delivery, estimating that building and managing 90,000 social homes in a single year could generate £51.2 billion in net economic benefit over 30 years. Meanwhile, more than 1.3 million households remain on council waiting lists, with approximately 350,000 living in temporary accommodation in England alone. Against this backdrop, Low Carbon Construction Plc says its manufacturing-led approach offers a route to bridge the gap between ambition and delivery. The company reports that approximately 180 organisations have expressed support for the initiative, with further engagement underway across the construction, finance and infrastructure sectors. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Greggs ramps up site search to fuel nationwide expansion and new format rollout

Greggs ramps up site search to fuel nationwide expansion and new format rollout

Greggs has unveiled an updated property requirements list as it accelerates plans to expand its UK footprint, signalling continued demand for a diverse range of retail and roadside locations across the country. The food-to-go operator, which secured 100 new shop locations during 2025, is actively seeking leasehold units with a minimum floor area of 900 sq ft. Its acquisition strategy spans both in-town and out-of-town environments, reflecting a flexible approach to site selection aligned with changing consumer habits. Target locations include high streets, shopping centres and transport hubs, alongside retail parks, roadside plots, industrial areas and business parks. The company is also open to opportunities within supermarkets and suburban parades, while continuing to grow its drive-through estate, an increasingly important format within the quick-service sector. Greggs’ broad property criteria highlights the ongoing convergence between retail and industrial real estate, particularly in roadside and logistics-linked locations where accessibility and convenience are key. Sites within mixed-use schemes and employment-led developments are likely to play a growing role in supporting this expansion. The company is aiming to deliver approximately 120 net new stores in 2026, despite reporting a dip in profits in the previous year. With an existing estate of around 2,700 outlets, Greggs has identified capacity to exceed 3,000 locations across the UK over the longer term, underpinned by what it describes as a strong pipeline of opportunities. In addition to its core formats, Greggs is set to trial a new ‘bitesize Greggs’ concept, designed to operate in more constrained urban locations where space is limited but demand remains high. The expansion strategy reflects sustained occupier demand for well-located, flexible units, reinforcing the role of retail-led operators in driving activity across both traditional high streets and emerging urban logistics and roadside environments. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Siemens launches groundbreaking portfolio for the era of direct current technology

Siemens launches groundbreaking portfolio for the era of direct current technology

Siemens Smart Infrastructure has launched a new, comprehensive portfolio of direct current (DC) protection and switching solutions, solidifying its position as a pioneer in the DC era. The new offering, including the innovative SENTRON 3QD2 semiconductor circuit breaker and the SIRIUS 3RF5 solid-state switching device, is designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable, efficient, and reliable low-voltage power distribution and industrial switching technology. Integrated in power distribution systems such as SIVACON S8 low-voltage switchboard and SIVACON 8PS busbar trunking systems, these solutions are particularly crucial for high-performance applications such as data centers, especially AI Factories, production facilities and battery storage systems, as well as for the integration of renewable energies. The shift from widely used AC (Alternating Current) systems towards DC technology is a critical step in the global energy transition. Renewable energy sources like photovoltaics (PV) and battery storage systems generate or store electricity as Direct Current. By reducing conversion (DC to AC) losses and enabling the direct integration of renewable energy sources, DC systems offer a more efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional AC grids. Siemens is at the forefront of this transformation, with a deep commitment to research and development, demonstrated by its active participation in initiatives like the Open Direct Current Alliance (ODCA) and Current/OS. A key innovation in the new portfolio is the SENTRON 3QD2 semiconductor circuit breaker. Based on semiconductor technology and smart protection algorithms, it enables ultra-fast interruption of short circuits in the microsecond range, up to 1,000 times faster than conventional systems. This is mandatory for DC grids and offers a significant increase of protection and system availability. “With the consistent development of our pioneering semiconductor switching technology, we enable a new level of electrical safety also for the DC era,” said Andreas Matthé, CEO of Electrical Products at Siemens. The parametrizable SENTRON 3QD2 combines protection, switching, monitoring, and energy management in a single compact and multifunctional unit, replacing multiple components and saving significant space. Being maintenance-free with no mechanical wear parts, the SENTRON 3QD2 ensures a long service life and maximum plant availability, making it ideal for critical infrastructure. “Our new DC portfolio equips customers with innovative solutions that not only enhance energy efficiency but also enable them to build a more resilient, future-ready infrastructure. This is a crucial contribution to the decarbonization of our industries and a testament to our commitment to creating technologies with purpose,” Andreas Matthé added. Complementing the SENTRON 3QD2 is the new SIRIUS 3RF5 solid-state switching device, the first of its kind for DC applications. It is designed for high-frequency switching of resistive loads, offering a low wear and durable solution that enhances the efficiency and availability of industrial plants. The SIRIUS 3RF5 also carries the Siemens EcoTech Label, highlighting its sustainable and transparent product design. Together with the SIVACON S8 low-voltage switchboard (with Siemens EcoTech Label), SIVACON 8PS busbar trunking systems as well as integrated DC protection and switching devices, we are paving the way for new DC solutions, supporting a high level of reliability and efficiency in production or infrastructure. The advantages of DC solutions extend beyond individual products. By implementing DC grids, customers can achieve significant cost and material savings. For example, in a manufacturing setting with the use of robots, applying DC technology combined with energy recuperation and storage can reduce peak power demand by up to 80 percent, leading to substantial cost reductions. Furthermore, DC systems eliminate the need for reactive power compensation and require less copper in cabling, resulting in up to 50 percent material savings and a smaller environmental footprint. Siemens will present its new portfolio at the Hannover Messe 2026 in Hall 27, booth A 48. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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