Kenneth Booth
Green Light for Twin-Tower Scheme in Regenerating North Acton

Green Light for Twin-Tower Scheme in Regenerating North Acton

Downing has secured planning approval for a major twin-tower development in North Acton, West London, marking another milestone in the area’s transformation into a high-density urban centre. The Old Oak & Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC) has given the go-ahead for a 668-unit scheme that will replace the existing Holiday

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KFC Doubles Down on UK Growth with £1.5 Billion Property Investment

KFC Doubles Down on UK Growth with £1.5 Billion Property Investment

KFC UK & Ireland is set to supercharge its expansion strategy with a record-breaking £1.49 billion investment plan over the next five years, aiming to further solidify its place as a leader in the UK’s fast-growing quick-service restaurant sector. The fried chicken giant, which already operates over 1,000 outlets across

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Waterloo Station Revamp Gains Momentum with New Regeneration Partnership

Waterloo Station Revamp Gains Momentum with New Regeneration Partnership

A major regeneration initiative for Waterloo Station and the surrounding South Bank area has taken a significant step forward following the signing of a new partnership agreement between Network Rail, Places for London, and Lambeth Council. The collaboration sets out a long-term vision to redevelop London’s fourth busiest rail hub

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Innovate UK executives meet Northumbria‘s RIBAJ Rising Star

Innovate UK executives meet Northumbria‘s RIBAJ Rising Star

On Thursday 22nd May, Innovate UK marked 50 years of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) by holding their Regional Forum meeting at Northumbria University. During the event the Innovate UK team met some of the Northumbria Academics involved in the programme including the University’s RIBAJ Rising Star Award for 2024, Catherine

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Crystal Palace Sports Centre Set for £130m Transformation

Crystal Palace Sports Centre Set for £130m Transformation

Morgan Sindall Construction has been appointed to lead a major £130 million overhaul of the iconic Crystal Palace National Sports Centre in south London, marking a significant step forward in securing the future of one of the capital’s most historic sporting venues. The appointment, made by the Greater London Authority

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Latest Issue
Issue 331 : Aug 2025

Kenneth Booth

Green Light for Twin-Tower Scheme in Regenerating North Acton

Green Light for Twin-Tower Scheme in Regenerating North Acton

Downing has secured planning approval for a major twin-tower development in North Acton, West London, marking another milestone in the area’s transformation into a high-density urban centre. The Old Oak & Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC) has given the go-ahead for a 668-unit scheme that will replace the existing Holiday Inn Express adjacent to North Acton Underground station. The plans form part of the broader North Acton Town Centre Cluster masterplan aimed at revitalising the area into a vibrant neighbourhood hub. The approved project includes a 31-storey purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) tower with 609 beds, and a separate 17-storey build-to-rent (BTR) block offering 59 residential units. The scheme also incorporates 35% affordable housing and 255 sqm of commercial space at ground level. Residents will benefit from outdoor amenity areas, though no on-site parking is planned. Downing submitted revised proposals in September 2024 following extensive collaboration with the local authority. The updated designs aim to contribute positively to the evolving townscape of North Acton while addressing housing demand. The taller PBSA tower will feature anodised aluminium rainscreen cladding combined with panels of clear and patterned glazing, delivering a modern visual identity. Meanwhile, the smaller BTR building will be clad in terracotta with blue anodised aluminium detailing and clear-framed windows. Martin Fenlon, associate projects director at Downing, highlighted the strategic importance of the location: “Situated just outside of the city centre, North Acton is becoming a hotbed of regeneration. Its vibrant community, excellent transport links and close proximity to leading universities make it the ideal location for high-quality student accommodation and rental housing.” Fenlon added that the development will help meet growing demand for housing among both domestic and international students attending nearby institutions such as Imperial College London, the University of West London and the University of the Arts. The project represents a significant investment in West London’s future and reflects growing interest in the area’s regeneration potential. Downing’s scheme is expected to play a key role in shaping North Acton’s identity as a thriving, mixed-use district over the coming years. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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A legacy of innovation and growth: Altrad RMD Kwikform celebrates 90 years of bringing structures to life

A legacy of innovation and growth: Altrad RMD Kwikform celebrates 90 years of bringing structures to life

Altrad RMD Kwikform (Altrad RMDK), is proud to mark its 90th anniversary this year, celebrating a legacy of engineering excellence and innovation in the temporary works industry. Founded in 1935, the company has been at the forefront of the construction industry, consistently setting industry standards in delivering efficient, reliable, and safe temporary works solutions to support construction projects worldwide. Evolving from its early days as a British scaffolding business to a global leader in above and below-ground temporary works today, Altrad RMD Kwikform is well known for its industry expertise. The company’s history is a rich tapestry of pioneering engineering, innovation, and strategic growth. Altrad RMD Kwikform’s roots stem from two pioneering firms: Mills Scaffolding (Kwikform) and The Douglas Group (RMD), two brands that have been fundamental in shaping who they are today. Mills Scaffolding, founded in 1935, became known for its innovative and safety-focused scaffolding solutions. After being acquired by GKN plc in 1983, it was rebranded as GKN Kwikform and introduced the iconic Kwikstage modular scaffolding system, revolutionising construction site efficiency. Later acquired by Bandt Plc in 1995, it became Kwikform UK Ltd. Meanwhile, the Douglas Group (formally known as R.M. Douglas Holdings Ltd), founded in the 1930s by Sir Robert McCallum Douglas OBE, a distinguished engineer and industrialist, excelled in temporary works solutions through its subsidiary R.M. Douglas Construction Ltd, which engineered an innovative steel shuttering system in response to post-war timber shortages. This development led to the formation of Rapid Metal Developments Ltd (RMD) in 1948. RMD expanded globally and developed renowned products such as Rapid Ply, Superslim Soldiers, and Megashor, earning industry recognition which led to the business receiving the prestigious Queen’s Award to Industry for engineering excellence in 1975. In 1999, RMD and Kwikform UK Ltd merged to create RMD Kwikform, combining their expertise to focus on comprehensive temporary works solutions. The company expanded globally throughout the 2000s and introduced 3D visualisation technologies in 2013 to enhance customer support. In 2015, RMD Kwikform entered the ground shoring market, broadening its capabilities even further. In 2021, RMD Kwikform was acquired by the Altrad Group, strengthening its global presence. Now operating as Altrad RMD Kwikform, the company remains a trusted provider of above and below ground temporary works solutions for projects of all scales worldwide. Mark Pickard, UK Managing Director for Altrad RMDK explained: “For nearly a century, RMD Kwikform has been at the forefront of engineering excellence, providing trusted solutions for projects across diverse sectors such as transport and highways, ground works and utilities, commercial and residential developments, to name just a few. “Celebrating 90 years is a remarkable achievement, and our journey has been defined by our dedication to pushing boundaries and the trust we’ve built with our partners and customers globally. We are proud to be a trusted name in the temporary works industry – recognised for engineering excellence, reliability and innovation. We owe our success to our employees, past and present, who have driven our mission to deliver world-class solutions with integrity and expertise. “Looking ahead, we remain committed to driving innovation through digital solutions, sustainable practices, and collaborative partnerships to continue delivering the highest quality of service to the construction industry. We will also continue to build on our strong foundations and maintain our well-established reputation as a trusted leader in temporary works.” For more on Altrad RMD Kwikform, please visit www.rmdkwikform.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Bromford's Holly House development takes root as work gets underway

Bromford’s Holly House development takes root as work gets underway

Work has started on a new housing development that will provide more affordable homes in Gloucester. Gloucestershire-based housing association Bromford has begun work at its site in West Lodge Drive in the city, where it will be providing 35 new homes. The site is the former home of Holly House NHS care home but has laid empty since the buildings were demolished in 2013. The housing association was granted permission for the development last year and its in-house construction team started work on the new homes this month. The new homes will be a mixture of two-, three- and four-bedroom homes, all of which will be for social rent, the most affordable form of social housing rent. Bromford has been the country’s biggest builder of social rent homes over the past five years. Project Manager Louisa Fryer said: “It’s fantastic to see work getting underway on our latest development in Gloucestershire. These 35 affordable homes will make a real difference for local families and individuals who are looking for quality, secure housing in Gloucester who may have been priced out of the private rental market. We’re proud to be providing these much-needed affordable rental homes and look forward to welcoming customers into their new homes when they’re completed next year.” This month Bromford announced it had secured a site in Gloucester city centre where it will be building 113 affordable homes, while earlier in the year the housing association purchased an 11-acre site on the outskirts of Gloucester to build 95 homes. Bromford is the largest housing association in Gloucestershire with more than 10,000 homes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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KFC Doubles Down on UK Growth with £1.5 Billion Property Investment

KFC Doubles Down on UK Growth with £1.5 Billion Property Investment

KFC UK & Ireland is set to supercharge its expansion strategy with a record-breaking £1.49 billion investment plan over the next five years, aiming to further solidify its place as a leader in the UK’s fast-growing quick-service restaurant sector. The fried chicken giant, which already operates over 1,000 outlets across the UK and Ireland, has confirmed ambitious plans to open 500 new restaurants by 2034. A significant portion of the investment – approximately £466 million – will be dedicated to acquiring and developing new sites across both urban centres and drive-thru hotspots, reflecting changing consumer behaviours post-pandemic. This property-focused strategy builds on a period of steady growth over the past five years. Since 2019, KFC has opened dozens of new locations each year, often focusing on drive-thru formats and food courts within retail parks – a trend accelerated by demand for convenience and off-premise dining. At the same time, the company has leaned into refurbishing its existing footprint, with over 200 restaurants earmarked for upgrades under the new investment plan. Key to KFC’s growth is its franchise-first model. Around 95% of its UK sites are run by local franchisees, who will be supported by this new wave of investment. The upgrades will include digital ordering enhancements, modernised kitchen equipment, and sustainable building improvements to meet growing environmental expectations. Rob Swain, general manager of KFC UK & Ireland, said: “We’ve never seen such demand for freshly prepared fried chicken as we’re seeing today. That’s why we’re doubling down on our commitment to the UK and Ireland with a major investment into our restaurants and in the suppliers who have been so crucial to our success.” This investment also signals a strategic counter to increased competition in the UK chicken market. Newcomers such as Popeyes, Wingstop, and Slim Chickens have captured attention in key urban areas, creating pressure for established brands to innovate and invest. KFC’s planned expansion and estate upgrades not only aim to strengthen its market leadership but also promise a positive ripple effect on local economies, with job creation and supply chain growth expected as part of the programme. As KFC celebrates its 60th anniversary in the UK, this latest move underscores its long-term confidence in the British market and its appetite for sustainable, modern growth. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Waterloo Station Revamp Gains Momentum with New Regeneration Partnership

Waterloo Station Revamp Gains Momentum with New Regeneration Partnership

A major regeneration initiative for Waterloo Station and the surrounding South Bank area has taken a significant step forward following the signing of a new partnership agreement between Network Rail, Places for London, and Lambeth Council. The collaboration sets out a long-term vision to redevelop London’s fourth busiest rail hub alongside improvements to the neighbouring public realm. The project aims to enhance station facilities, improve public spaces and accessibility, and boost the area’s attractiveness for investment, while supporting Lambeth Council’s ambitions to deliver more homes and business premises. Architectural firm Grimshaw has created the outline design for the transformation, which includes plans to reopen boarded-up railway arches, construct a new southern concourse, and add a large mansard rooftop extension along the station’s front entrance. Robin Dobson, Group Property Director at Network Rail, described the joint vision as a catalyst to “unlock huge growth and investment opportunities” throughout Waterloo and the South Bank. Graeme Craig, Chief Executive at Places for London – the property arm of Transport for London – emphasised that the redevelopment would ensure passengers experience the very best London has to offer at this historic transport hub. The comprehensive regeneration project is expected to span 10 to 15 years, with a focus on minimising public expenditure by leveraging private sector investment and commercial developments. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Blackpool's new home for The Department for Work and Pensions completes

Blackpool’s new home for The Department for Work and Pensions completes

A new office in Blackpool, which will be home to over 3,000 employees from The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), has completed. The £100m, 215,000 sq ft workspace – which forms phase three of the wider £350m regeneration of Blackpool’s Talbot Gateway – has been delivered by nationwide placemaker, Muse, Blackpool Council, and contractor VINCI Building. Located on King Street, the highly-sustainable, seven-storey building brings DWP’s employees into the heart of Blackpool from out-of-town, driving footfall for local businesses and the hospitality sector. It represents the largest commercial workspace to be built in Blackpool town centre and is the town’s most audacious build since Blackpool Tower. Designed by Make Architects to BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standards and an EPC ‘A’ rating, the office also sets new sustainability standards in Blackpool, with: As a result of all partners’ ambitions to deliver a building as environmentally considerate as possible, the workspace has achieved an upfront embodied carbon density of 630 kgCO2e/m2. compared with 1100kgCO2e/m2 for a typical office development. Elsewhere, a range of features have been incorporated into the building to promote occupant wellbeing and wellness. These include open-plan working areas, meeting rooms, and quiet zones to aid collaboration and productivity, while active low-carbon travel is promoted through extensive ground floor facilities including cycle storage, showers, and changing facilities. The development also promotes sustainable transport due to its proximity (250m) to Blackpool North train station and a new tram interchange, as well as cycle/pedestrian routes. Significant levels of social value were generated by the building’s creation too. The project provided over 350 weeks of training, created nearly 300 work placement weeks, and facilitated over 50 employment opportunities for people not in education, employment, or training. An on-site construction skills centre also helped 16 young people from Blackpool who had left school to complete qualifications and find work experience in trades such as bricklaying and plastering.12 of the young people impressed so much on site that they found permanent work with sub-contractors. The Minister for Transformation, Andrew Western, said: “I am delighted to announce the official opening of the new £100 million Civil Service Hub, a landmark development in our commitment to modernising and streamlining government operations. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a centralised workspace, fostering collaboration and innovation among our teams. “It is a testament to our dedication to creating efficient and sustainable working environments that support the vital work of our public servants. It will not only enhance productivity but also contribute significantly to the local economy by providing job opportunities and stimulating local businesses. “I look forward to seeing the positive impact this Hub will have on our community and the broader public sector.” Alan McBride, Technical Director at Muse, commented: “Completing the third phase of Talbot Gateway’s regeneration signifies a pivotal milestone on our journey with long-standing partners, Blackpool Council, to revitalise this iconic seaside destination and create opportunities for local people. “By bringing over 3,000 employees into the heart of Blackpool, this highly sustainable workspace will stimulate economic growth, and dovetails with Blackpool Council’s aim to future-proof the town for generations. With further phases still to come too, our and the Council’s ambition to build a bolder and brighter future for Blackpool is being realised.” Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, added: “This is one of the most impressive builds in Blackpool in decades. It shows our ambitions to make Blackpool better for everybody who lives and works here and how we are transforming the area around the train station into a real central business district. “Local people have found work and training on the construction, while the boost of bringing 3,000 new workers into the town centre should be felt by many businesses. The new landscaped space next to the building is a lovely green oasis for the town centre and anybody living or working here.” The regeneration of Talbot Gateway has already delivered the 125,000 sq ft Number One Bickerstaffe Square council office, a Sainsbury’s supermarket, and a refurbished 650-space multi-storey car park, alongside extensive public spaces for the community to enjoy. A new 4 star 144-bedroom Holiday Inn hotel and Marco Pierre White New York Italian restaurant opened in May 2024, while a tram-train interchange linking to Blackpool Promenade opened in June 2024. Plans have also been approved for a multiversity campus for Blackpool and the Fylde College, bringing up to 3,000 students and staff into the area, with work expected to commence later this year. Elsewhere, full planning permission has been granted for a new £45 million, 82,000 sq ft office off Talbot Road – to be developed by Muse on behalf of Blackpool Council –  which would be home to another 1,000 civil service employees. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Innovate UK executives meet Northumbria‘s RIBAJ Rising Star

Innovate UK executives meet Northumbria‘s RIBAJ Rising Star

On Thursday 22nd May, Innovate UK marked 50 years of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) by holding their Regional Forum meeting at Northumbria University. During the event the Innovate UK team met some of the Northumbria Academics involved in the programme including the University’s RIBAJ Rising Star Award for 2024, Catherine Sinclair. At the meeting Catherine presented her work as a KTP Associate with leading architect and design firm, Space Architects, through which she is aiming to drive forward innovation in the field of low carbon. Early intervention is crucial for whole life carbon (WLC) reduction, and Catherine is on a mission to bring WLC analysis to the forefront of the design decision-making process. Through the partnership she is developing a digital tool that can analyse the WLC of design decisions from the earliest stages, including location, form and structure. This enables WLC analysis to be treated as a core rather than specialist activity within architecture. Rob Charlton, CEO of Space Group has been impressed by the work Catherine has completed, saying “We couldn’t be prouder of Catherine and all that she has already achieved in her career. Catherine exemplifies what it means to lead with vision, innovation and integrity, setting an inspiring example through her dedication to helping others and leading the research into Whole Life Carbon and reducing impact of the built environment.” Speaking on the benefits of undertaking her KTP Catherine said: “The partnership has allowed the opportunity for both Space Architects and Northumbria University to collaborate and progress early strategies for whole life carbon reduction across the design process. Embedding sustainability at the core of the design process and having developed the D-CARB tool to be used at the earliest stage of a project has already provided proven impact and outcomes in regard to whole life carbon reduction within our designs.” Following their visit to campus Richard Lamb, Head of KTP Programme, Innovate UK and John Clayton, Knowledge Transfer Adviser, Innovate UK KTN, met with the project team for the Northumbria University and Space Architects KTP. Speaking on the visit, Richard Lamb said: “It has been marvellous to visit Northumbria University as part of our wider North East tour celebrating the 50thbirthday of the Knowledge Transfer Partnership programme. It has been fantastic to hear about the ongoing KTPs at Northumbria and especially pleasing to meet Catherine and the team at Space Architects to hear about such a successful example of a KTP.” Innovate UK Knowledge Transfer Partnerships bring together forward-thinking businesses and expert academics to tackle strategic innovation challenges to deliver economic, societal or environmental outcomes. The partnerships are tailored to the specific requirements of individual participants and businesses, each addressing specific needs. Through the placement of highly qualified graduates, businesses gain innovative solutions, new technologies and expertise over 12-36 months. Since 1975, KTPs have driven innovation and growth by creating collaborations between businesses and academic institutions. They have proven effective for businesses and universities, generating over £2 billion for the UK economy from 2010-2020, and currently support around 800 businesses, 100 knowledge bases (this could be a university, college, research and technology organisation or Catapult) and over 850 graduates. Find out more about Knowledge Transfer Partnerships at Northumbria University. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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£1.5 Billion Framework Launched to Drive Green Retrofit Revolution in Social Housing

£1.5 Billion Framework Launched to Drive Green Retrofit Revolution in Social Housing

Procure Plus, the Manchester-based social housing framework specialist, has announced an ambitious £1.5 billion initiative to accelerate the installation of low and zero carbon technologies across social housing stock in the UK. The new four-year framework, running from November 2025 to November 2029, is divided into 16 lots. It covers a comprehensive range of retrofit services, from assessment, design, and coordination to the delivery of multi-measure installations. Technologies included span air and ground source heat pumps, solar panels, electric heating systems, battery storage solutions, as well as full retrofit packages incorporating insulation and ventilation. The framework breaks down into specialist areas: lots 1 to 6 focus on retrofit design and coordination services, operating both nationally and regionally across the North West, Midlands, Yorkshire, North East and North Wales. Lots 7 to 12 cover multi-measure retrofit installation works nationally and regionally, while lots 13 to 16 are dedicated to specific technologies, including air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps, electric heating installation, and solar PV plus battery maintenance. This landmark initiative is aimed at supporting social housing providers in delivering retrofit projects aligned with the government’s net zero and decarbonisation targets. It opens the door to wide-ranging opportunities across the public sector, including housing associations, local councils, schools, NHS trusts, and emergency services. Procure Plus is inviting firms to submit bids by 30 June 2025. Successful contractors will play a key role in transforming social housing estates by introducing greener, more energy-efficient homes that reduce carbon emissions and help tackle fuel poverty. This framework represents a critical step in the UK’s journey towards sustainable housing, fostering collaboration and innovation in the retrofit sector. Interested organisations can find further information and apply through the Procure Plus website. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Starbucks Drive-Thru, KFC and Greggs Now Open and Trading at Viking Park, Congleton

Starbucks Drive-Thru, KFC and Greggs Now Open and Trading at Viking Park, Congleton

Clowes Developments have handed over three roadside convenience units to their occupiers, Café Fortune Ltd trading as Starbucks (Drive-Thru), Gastronomy Restaurants Ltd trading as KFC and Greggs. The stores opened at the start of May and have seen a positive launch with record opening sales reported. Construction of a detached 1,850 sq ft Starbucks drive through facility at the front of the plot and a semi-detached unit totalling 3,200 sq ft KFC and Greggs store were officially built out earlier in the year following a brief fit out period, the stores are now fully open and operational.  At the centre of the plot there is a parking facility for up to 38 vehicles, including 4 E-V charging stations for convenience of passing trade. Ian Gill, Property Director at Gastronomy Restaurants Ltd & Café Fortune Ltd, commented: “Gastronomy Restaurants Ltd and Café Fortune Ltd as appointed UK franchisee and licensees for KFC and Starbucks are delighted to have worked with Clowes Developments in bringing forward this scheme and allowing us to bring these brands to the population of Congleton. The process was amicable and smooth with the completed scheme looking exceptional.” Gillian Long, Retail Operations Director for Greggs, said: “Our new shop in Congleton has brought 12 new jobs to the local area, as well as providing customers with a modern, convenient new place to experience their Greggs favourites.” The retail units are conveniently located directly off Barn Road which runs through the centre of Viking Park, connecting Congleton town to the A536 link road. Starbucks, Greggs and KFC sit next to a hugely popular Aldi store which officially opened to the general public in September 2024. Marc Freeman, Director, Clowes Developments (UK) Ltd added: “We’re delighted to see the roadside retail element at Viking Park now fully open and trading. The arrival of Starbucks, KFC and Greggs significantly strengthens the offering for both the local community and passing traffic. Building on Aldi’s successful opening last autumn, Viking Park is rapidly establishing itself as a key destination in Congleton. Our thanks go to Roe Developments for delivering the units on time and to an excellent standard.” Elsewhere on the mixed-use scheme, residential developer Bloor Homes are progressing well with the construction of their homes. On completion, Viking Park will deliver up to 175 homes, as well as 36,800 sq ft office facilities and 219,500 sq ft of industrial units. Two industrial units have also achieved practical completion according to schedule and are now being fitted out by their occupiers, which are due to be announced in the next couple of weeks. Additionally, Clowes Developments in partnership with their principal construction contractor, Roe Developments, have commenced earthworks on the next phase of Viking Park. This phase will deliver two high-quality industrial/trade counter/warehouse units, each measuring 12,220 sq ft, with the flexibility to be subdivided into three terrace units of approximately 4,000 sq ft each. The units enjoy a prominent roadside position with direct access from the main road, offering excellent visibility and accessibility. Available on an all-enquiries basis, these units are scheduled for completion and ready for occupation by Q4 2025. Viking103, a 100,000 sq ft design and build opportunity is also being marketed on an all-enquiries basis, interested parties are invited to contact agents Mark Sillitoe, ms@willsill.co.uk or Andrew Groves, andrew.groves@harrislamb.com for more information. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Crystal Palace Sports Centre Set for £130m Transformation

Crystal Palace Sports Centre Set for £130m Transformation

Morgan Sindall Construction has been appointed to lead a major £130 million overhaul of the iconic Crystal Palace National Sports Centre in south London, marking a significant step forward in securing the future of one of the capital’s most historic sporting venues. The appointment, made by the Greater London Authority through the Southern Construction Framework, signals the beginning of a pre-construction phase involving detailed planning applications and listed building consent. Full-scale works are expected to begin in the latter half of next year. The ambitious scheme will see the comprehensive refurbishment of the centre’s ageing facilities, including a complete rebuild of the 50-metre swimming and diving pools. Upgrades are also planned for the indoor sports halls, external pitches and the athletics stadium, revitalising the venue while carefully preserving its Grade II* listed architecture. First opened in 1964, the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre has long been a launchpad for British sporting talent. However, decades of wear have left the site in urgent need of modernisation. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan commented: “Crystal Palace National Sports Centre is an historic and much-loved sporting and community facility where many UK sporting stars have started their careers and trained, but which needs major investment and refurbishment. I am committed to this once-in-a-generation redevelopment of the site which will secure its future for decades to come.” The complex nature of the refurbishment is compounded by the need to work sensitively within the constraints of a protected structure, ensuring that heritage features are preserved while modernising the facility to meet current sporting and community needs. Richard Dobson, area director for London at Morgan Sindall Construction, said: “We’re delighted to have been appointed to this project, as the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre is an iconic facility that’s not only close to the hearts of people in the area but is also an important historic national sporting landmark. “We look forward to continuing our close and collaborative relationship with the Greater London Authority on this regeneration, which has been procured through the SCF framework. The project promises to breathe new life into the extensive sporting facilities, while delivering a wide range of health, wellbeing, and social value benefits for local communities.” The redevelopment is seen as a critical investment in London’s sporting infrastructure and a timely commitment to community health and wellbeing, as well as preserving a legacy site for future generations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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