In a significant boost for the UK’s clean energy ambitions, Inyanga Marine Energy Group has awarded a key fabrication contract to Hutchinson Engineering for its pioneering HydroWing tidal energy device. Set to be deployed at Morlais, off the coast of Anglesey (Ynys Môn), the 20 MW HydroWing array forms part
The OCS Foundation, an independent grant-giving and fundraising charity, is proud to announce its relaunch with a sharpened focus on creating opportunities for children and young people facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland. Established in 2014, the OCS Foundation has a strong legacy of tackling the causes and effects
With the ever-increasing need for secure fire-resistant storage, especially in residential and commercial developments, the application of fireproof safe technology is emerging as a complex consideration for construction experts. This article focuses on these systems, their selection considerations, and their integration with contemporary security frameworks. Over 147,000 fire incidents in
Multi-disciplinary engineering specialist Spencer Group has become an official Company Supporter of Lighthouse, the construction industry charity. Hull-based Spencer Group has selected the organisation as its official charity partner for 2025 and colleagues have already raised over £2,000 through an Easter raffle, weekly dress-down Fridays, fantasy football league and more.
The best property management group for commercial spaces helps you protect your investment while making your life easier. When you bring in a professional team, you get a partner who can reduce vacancies and streamline daily operations. From managing budgets to boosting tenant retention, the right company takes care of
Beauty giant Sephora has opened its first UK store of 2025 at Liverpool ONE, marking the brand’s eighth location across the country. The 6,727 sq ft store brings Sephora’s signature range of beauty and self-care products to the heart of the popular retail destination, joining a strong line-up of existing
Willmott Dixon Interiors has completed the transformation of Atlantic House in Reading, delivering the new Reading Police Station for Thames Valley Police (TVP). The fit-out and refurbishment specialist has repurposed over 37,000 sq ft of office space across three floors, providing TVP with a facility that delivers the operational requirements
A new report by CBRE, commissioned by West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), has highlighted the acute need for more grow-on space for life sciences, and in particular digital health companies if the region is going to fulfill its potential and retain its home-grown talent. CBRE’s research found that with over
New Uswitch analysis of government data has revealed the UK’s top-performing local authorities for renewable energy generation per household, with Moray in Scotland emerging as the national leader. Table 1: Top ten local authorities with the largest renewable energy capacity in megawatts per 1,000 households Rank Local authority Capacity in
Earlier last week, the workplace and facilities management (WFM) community celebrated World FM Day and its theme of “Resilience in action: thriving in a world of change”. While professional resilience and organisational resilience are integral for the WFM sector to do its best work, IWFM’s Strategic Leaders Forum (SLF), Sustainability
In a significant boost for the UK’s clean energy ambitions, Inyanga Marine Energy Group has awarded a key fabrication contract to Hutchinson Engineering for its pioneering HydroWing tidal energy device. Set to be deployed at Morlais, off the coast of Anglesey (Ynys Môn), the 20 MW HydroWing array forms part of one of Europe’s largest consented tidal energy projects. The first-of-its-kind device is scheduled for installation in early 2026 and is expected to mark a turning point for marine renewables in the UK. The fabrication contract covers the construction of the foundation frame and rear nacelle, essential components designed to endure the extreme conditions of the seabed environment. The 120-tonne frame will deliver 1.2 MW of energy per unit and is designed with a 25-year lifespan, taking future decommissioning into account. Manufacturing will be split between Hutchinson Engineering’s base in Cheshire and final assembly at a Welsh quayside location, supporting regional job creation and local supply chains. Richard Parkinson, chief executive of Inyanga Marine Energy Group, said: “Hutchinson Engineering have all the engineering expertise and ingenuity required to turn our innovative tidal stream technology concept into reality. The tidal energy scheme at Morlais is the largest of its kind in the world and this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to prove the full potential of tidal energy, really putting Wales on the map as a global pioneer in renewable energy.” Steve Adams, managing director of Hutchinson Engineering, added: “We are extremely excited about winning the contract for this groundbreaking project. We pride ourselves on all our fabrications having a positive impact on the world and so this will be a flagship project for us. It is an opportunity to fabricate advanced technology that is expected to become a world leader in tidal energy.” The development also signals broader momentum for the Morlais initiative. Andy Billcliff, chief executive of Menter Môn Morlais, commented: “The award of the first fabrication contract is a significant milestone in our exciting journey to deliver tidal energy at Morlais, providing economic and sustainability benefits for Wales and the UK, as well as demonstrating the global commercial viability of tidal energy.” Earlier this month, the Welsh Government confirmed a £2 million equity investment in Inyanga Marine Energy Group, contributing to a wider funding round supporting the company’s international expansion, including projects in France, southeast Asia and Canada. Onshore infrastructure for the Morlais site, including a landfall substation and underground cabling, was completed by North Wales-based Jones Bros Civil Engineering in December 2023. As the world searches for sustainable energy solutions, this Welsh-led project positions the UK at the forefront of tidal power innovation, offering the promise of long-term environmental and economic returns. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The OCS Foundation, an independent grant-giving and fundraising charity, is proud to announce its relaunch with a sharpened focus on creating opportunities for children and young people facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland. Established in 2014, the OCS Foundation has a strong legacy of tackling the causes and effects of poverty by developing the capacity and skills of socially and economically disadvantaged community members. In 2023, the Foundation piloted its pioneering ‘People into Work’ scheme, which has since helped over 680 individuals secure valuable, sustainable employment. These life-changing outcomes are now a core part of OCS’s social value commitments. A new chapter With its relaunch, the OCS Foundation is reaffirming its purpose to positively impact as many children and young people as possible, providing them with opportunities to thrive. The Foundation’s mission is clear—children and young people should have no limits to their potential, their dreams, and no limits in their lives. Recognising the barriers many children and young people face, whether through illness, poverty, exclusion, or unstable family environments, the OCS Foundation supports causes, projects, and charities that offer safety, skills, wellbeing support, and real pathways to a brighter future. By leveraging the strength and reach of OCS, the Foundation empowers individuals through mental health support, education, skills development, and community activities, ensuring a lasting impact. Key initiatives and values The OCS Foundation’s initiatives focus on three core areas: Guided by its TRUE values (Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment) the Foundation is committed to investing in both immediate support and long-term solutions for young people. Collective Commitment and Leadership The OCS Foundation is led by a dedicated board of trustees, chaired by Lorraine O’Brien, who brings over 25 years of commercial and charitable leadership experience. Nikki Brown, the new Head of Foundation, is passionate about harnessing collective effort to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and young people. As part of the relaunch, the Foundation is proud to announce partnerships with Brighten the Corners, Irish Youth Foundation, Teenage Cancer Trust and Scotty’s Little Soldiers. These partnerships will further strengthen the Foundation’s ability to deliver meaningful, lasting impact. Commenting on the relaunch, Nikki Brown, Head of the Foundation said, “We are delighted to be announcing a long-term vision for the Foundation which supports our future generations. We are focused on lifting children and young people up and giving them the helping hand they need to create a better future for themselves. The partners that we have chosen will really help us to make a difference.” Lorraine O’Brien, Chair of the Board of Trustees, added, “The Foundation has a reinvigorated and renewed sense of purpose to use the power of OCS and our incredible colleagues to improve the lives of future generations. Our mission will be focusing on removing the barriers that many young people face by creating a wealth of opportunities to create a brighter future without limits for young people.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
With the ever-increasing need for secure fire-resistant storage, especially in residential and commercial developments, the application of fireproof safe technology is emerging as a complex consideration for construction experts. This article focuses on these systems, their selection considerations, and their integration with contemporary security frameworks. Over 147,000 fire incidents in England were reported in 2023, according to the UK Home Office’s Fire and Rescue Incident Statistics. An overwhelming share of these amounted to residential fires. As is typical, fire detection and suppression systems are integrated into the building’s specifications, however, safekeeping sensitive and irreplaceable items remains inadequately addressed at the design stage. This article investigates the integration of fireproof safes into construction and refurbishment projects. It navigates the practical challenges that selection of products poses and considers the alignment of storage subtility by contractors, developers, and facilities managers in the context of advanced fire protection policies. The Importance Fireproof Safes Have in Construction Fireproof safes are not regarded as additional features for users, but rather built into as security systems in new constructions and during renovations. These safes are used for securing documentation pertaining to the construction of a building, tenant possessions, and even sensitive digital media, all while offering protection against fire, unauthorised access, and breach. Due to recognized standards like EN 15659 and UL 72, modern fireproof safes are tested to endure high temperatures for specific durations, typically 30, 60 and, in some cases, 120 minutes. In more advanced structures like mixed-use or commercial offices, the ability to protect sensitive contents such as legal contracts, legal digital backups, and even legal records from fire damage is becoming a tier one requirement and is often included for specification writing. Balanced and dynamic risk management is becoming prevalent as construction teams work alongside facilities to determine if static, concealed, or floor-mounted storage will best fit a building’s operational and security needs early on. Understanding the Role of Fireproof Safes in Construction Choosing a fireproof safe involves balancing fire protection, security rating, and intended use. Fireproof safes are often rated not only by how much heat they can withstand, but also how much physical attack they can endure, usually according to standards like the European EN 14450 or the EN 1143-1 for higher security applications. A safe’s internal layout can differ greatly depending on whether the contents are paper documents, digital media, or cash and jewellery. For example, data safes require additional internal insulation and moisture control because electronic devices and hard drives are more sensitive to heat and humidity than paper. In the construction of fireproof safes, the method of installation also affects the weight. Most large units need reinforced flooring or fixed anchorage points to secure them in place. For construction projects with limited space, wall-mounted or underfloor units save square footage without compromising internal layout design. Typically, fire resistance ratings are broken down by how long they last, for example, 60 or 120 minutes of protection, as well as by the type of content. Understanding the specific rating and certification is essential during product selection because a safe rated for 60 minutes protecting paper may not digitally safeguard data for the same duration. Key Considerations for Selecting Fireproof Storage As risks of fire and theft continue across the built environment, residential and commercial schemes are integrating secure storage into the early stages of the planning process. For residential projects, especially more luxurious or multi-unit apartments, demand for built-in security is leading to the installation of fireproof safes during fit-outs. In commercial contexts, secure storage is routinely incorporated in server rooms, finance offices, or document storage. Increasingly, office buildings are installing safes not only for security, but also as part of comprehensive disaster recovery plans to shield vital materials from external threats, fire, and tampering. In these public sector buildings, including schools and healthcare facilities, the provision of fireproof storage enables compliance with data protection and record-keeping legislation. Safes in such settings are frequently used for personal records, medication logs, or digital equipment, forming part of an overarching risk mitigation strategy. More and more construction professionals are considering these requirements during the mechanical as well as electrical planning stages, so that installation of systems by subcontractors dealing with HVAC, electrical, and access systems is performed in a safe manner and does not interfere with other systems. Looking Ahead As we know from the construction of screw thread fireproof safes, fire as an operational threat is becoming a concern. These structures incorporate sophisticated safety and security features, while fireproof safes are increasingly common, no longer an afterthought. Given the rigorous testing these safes undergo and their design for various applications, they will osutn—be useful for numerous enduring regions in the constructed environment. For some industries, such as legal practices, healthcare, education, and high-end residential properties, where document retention, data protection, and asset preservation are of primary importance, this is particularly remarkable. The use of fireproof safes signifies a shift toward fortification building architecture. With policies now focusing more on risk exposure and continuity planning, secure storage systems will soon become standard in design briefs. Moreover, advanced material technologies and small form factors enable these units to be spatially and visually unobtrusive. Their integration is increasingly becoming a rational approach in contemporary building design.
Multi-disciplinary engineering specialist Spencer Group has become an official Company Supporter of Lighthouse, the construction industry charity. Hull-based Spencer Group has selected the organisation as its official charity partner for 2025 and colleagues have already raised over £2,000 through an Easter raffle, weekly dress-down Fridays, fantasy football league and more. Lighthouse provides 24/7 holistic support to the UK and Ireland construction community on all aspects of emotional, physical and financial wellbeing. A crucial element of the charity’s strategy is to provide a range of free and widely available reactive and proactive resources to support the industry, which Spencer Group’s fundraising will help to deliver. Spencer Group Completions Manager Claire Ransom is one of the company’s Charity Champions who are leading the fundraising efforts. She said: “Every working day in the UK and Ireland, two construction workers take their own life, and we know that stress, anxiety and depression accounts for one fifth of all reported work-related illnesses. “As a business we’re committed to supporting the wellbeing of our colleagues and contributing to making a positive change in our industry. Lighthouse aligns with everything we are so passionate about, so choosing them as our charity partner for 2025 was a natural choice. “The charity works to bring mental health into normal workplace conversations and provides free, confidential support and resources to anyone who is struggling. We’re proud to be supporting them in 2025.” To bolster support for the charity while also giving back to its own workforce, Spencer Group matched the first £1,000 raised by colleagues and donated an additional £1,000 to become an official Company Supporter. Services the charity offers include a free and confidential 24/7 helpline, live web chat service and text facility, providing a range of information, guidance and support on a huge variety of wellbeing issues. These services are complemented by Lighthouse’s free self-support app, as well as Lighthouse Beacons – safe spaces for people to share concerns. By becoming a Company Supporter, Spencer Group colleagues now have access to free online Mental Health First Aid training in addition to a number of other benefits designed to support and promote wellbeing, including the charity’s Wellbeing Academy which offers a variety of soft skills and leadership training, an exclusive supporter hub, helpline cards and posters, and regular awareness campaign updates and social media assets. To kick off the partnership, Spencer Group welcomed representatives from Lighthouse for an informative presentation which was delivered in person to colleagues at Spencer Group’s head office in Hull, as well as streamed to all project sites across the UK. The presentation aimed to raise awareness of the wide portfolio of services the charity provides and highlight how colleagues can access support. Claire said: “At Spencer Group we’re already committed to promoting an open and inclusive work environment, where colleagues are encouraged to prioritise their wellbeing. “We have a growing team of Mental Health First Aiders and run regular Took Box Talks, as well as weekly Wellness Walks to ensure people know how they can access support and have a safe space they can go if they are struggling. “Our partnership with Lighthouse marks another meaningful step forward in our ongoing commitment to wellbeing, support and positive change in our industry.” Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity added: “I’d like to say a huge thank you to Spencer Group for choosing us as their charity of the year. “As well as their fantastic fundraising efforts and joining us as a Company Supporter, their proactive stance in promoting our charitable services continues to open conversations around positive wellbeing and helps to create a supportive working environment for everyone in our industry.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The best property management group for commercial spaces helps you protect your investment while making your life easier. When you bring in a professional team, you get a partner who can reduce vacancies and streamline daily operations. From managing budgets to boosting tenant retention, the right company takes care of the details so you can focus on growing your business. Working with a top-tier management group is wise if you want peace of mind and long-term value from your project. Why Property Management Matters for Commercial Assets The best property management group for commercial spaces understands your project’s unique challenges. It takes a proactive approach to solving them. Commercial spaces have complex regulatory requirements and tenant expectations that can quickly become overwhelming. Without proper management, you risk tenant turnover, rising operational costs and potential legal trouble. A reliable management company handles lease enforcement, budgeting and tenant communications, which gives you consistent results and peace of mind. What Is the Best Property Management Group for Commercial Spaces? Choosing the right property management group for commercial spaces can make or break your investment. Whether you own one office building or manage a portfolio of retail centers, the right team keeps operations smooth and tenants satisfied. 1. Property Management, Inc. If you are looking for a dependable commercial property management group in Pennsylvania, Property Management, Inc. (PMI) offers services tailored to your needs. With over 50 years of experience, it manages more than 6 million square feet of commercial space, including office buildings and retail centers. Its services encompass lease administration, facility maintenance, financial planning and tenant relations. PMI’s dedicated team provides on-site staff management and strategic consulting to help you maximize your investment. Recognized as the No. 1 Best Commercial Property Management Firm by the Central Penn Business Journal, PMI stands out among its competitors for its commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. 2. Cushman & Wakefield If you manage a high-value commercial asset, Cushman & Wakefield brings global reach and deep local expertise to help you elevate your property’s performance. Its management services go beyond basic operations. It focuses on delivering workplace experiences that attract and retain top tenants. You will benefit from smart building technology, real-time data insights and a team that tailors solutions to your business goals. With a presence in over 60 countries and a team of more than 50,000 professionals, it brings global expertise and local market knowledge to every client. Cushman & Wakefield’s dedicated teams create engaging workplace experiences by maximizing your investment’s value while providing superior tenant service. 3. CBRE Group, Inc. CBRE combines global expertise with innovative solutions. Managing over 3.1 billion square feet across 19,000 properties worldwide, CBRE can help enhance your establishment’s performance and value. It offers lease administration, facility maintenance and financial planning to ensure your property is efficient. CBRE’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its integration of environmental, social and governance principles and smart building technologies. Its expertise helps you meet environmental goals while reducing operational costs. With a dedicated team of over 16,000 professionals, CBRE provides personalized service tailored to your specific needs, which makes them a top choice among commercial property management groups. 4. JLL (Jones Lang LaSalle) JLL is a strong contender if you want a property management group for commercial spaces that brings innovation and reliability. It offers a full range of services that cover building operations and lease administration, energy management and workplace experience design. What sets Jll apart is its focus on using real-time data and advanced technology to drive smart decision-making and reduce costs. You will also benefit from its deep commitment to sustainability, with tailored programs that help your property meet environmental goals without sacrificing performance. Whether managing an office tower, industrial park or mixed-use development, JLL delivers consistent results with a focus on tenant satisfaction and long-term asset value. 5. Lincoln Property Company Suppose you want to partner with a company that combines national scale with personalized service. Seek the services of Lincoln Property Company (LPC), which offers solutions to enhance your project’s performance and tenant satisfaction. It covers lease administration, facility maintenance and tenant relations, which ensures your property is profitable. Its proactive approach focuses on creating premier environments and engaging tenant experiences, leveraging the latest technologies and innovations to optimize real estate investments. Whether managing an office tower or industrial park, LPC’s dedicated team provides tailored solutions to meet your needs. How to Choose the Right Property Management Partner The best property management group for commercial spaces responds quickly, uses smart technology and understands the unique needs of your project. Take the time to compare offerings because the right partner can protect your investment and support long-term stability.
Beauty giant Sephora has opened its first UK store of 2025 at Liverpool ONE, marking the brand’s eighth location across the country. The 6,727 sq ft store brings Sephora’s signature range of beauty and self-care products to the heart of the popular retail destination, joining a strong line-up of existing UK locations including Westfield London, Trafford Centre in Manchester, and Birmingham Bullring. Liverpool ONE’s new addition is the first in a string of upcoming launches for Sephora, with further stores planned for Meadowhall in Sheffield, Manchester Arndale, and St David’s in Cardiff later this year. Rob Deacon, director of asset management at Liverpool ONE – Landsec, commented: “The hugely anticipated Sephora UK store is the latest in a series of milestone launches here at Liverpool ONE as we reach the halfway point of the busiest year of openings since the destination launched in 2008. “This flagship 6,727 sq ft space is the epitome of what Liverpool ONE is known for — a UK hotspot for best-in-class brands and standout experiences. We’re delighted to welcome Sephora, a global beauty powerhouse, adding even more reasons for shoppers to visit.” The launch coincides with a wider retail uplift at Liverpool ONE, including the opening of TFG London’s multi-brand flagship on South John Street, featuring products from Hobbs, Phase Eight, Whistles, and Inside Story. Sephora’s continued UK expansion underscores growing demand for experiential retail and premium beauty offerings, with Liverpool ONE proving to be a strategic and high-profile step in the brand’s rollout. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Willmott Dixon Interiors has completed the transformation of Atlantic House in Reading, delivering the new Reading Police Station for Thames Valley Police (TVP). The fit-out and refurbishment specialist has repurposed over 37,000 sq ft of office space across three floors, providing TVP with a facility that delivers the operational requirements for the area. The completion of the project enables TVP to consolidate its operations and transition from its previous premises on Castle Street in Reading. Each floor of Atlantic House has been fully refurbished with new ceilings, partitions, and high-quality finishes, alongside upgraded MEP systems. Police officers and staff working from the new facility also benefit from new locker and shower facilities, and other improvements such as communal break-out areas which enhance workplace wellbeing. The project worked to high environmental standards and is set to achieve a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating. It was delivered via the Southern Construction Framework (SCF). As part of its commitment to social value, Willmott Dixon Interiors invested in the local community through supplier partnerships, engagement with schools and colleges, and employment opportunities. Nick Kent, project director at Willmott Dixon Interiors said: “The successful refurbishment of Atlantic House provides TVP with a high-quality, efficient, and sustainable workplace tailored to the needs of a modern police force. Beyond delivering a first-class facility, we are proud to have made a meaningful contribution to the local community, supporting employment, skills development, and social initiatives that leave a lasting legacy.” James Wright, head of SCF (South East & London) said: “The completion of this modern and sustainable workspace is a big milestone for TVP and will enable their teams to continue delivering the highest standards for the community. It has been a pleasure to support such a crucial public service in the delivery of these new facilities.” Willmott Dixon Interiors has completed more than 50 fit out and refurbishment projects in the blue light and secured environment sector in recent years. These include projects for the Ministry of Defence and Defence Infrastructure Organisation, and the provision of justice and custody facilities for the Ministry of Justice. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new report by CBRE, commissioned by West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), has highlighted the acute need for more grow-on space for life sciences, and in particular digital health companies if the region is going to fulfill its potential and retain its home-grown talent. CBRE’s research found that with over 600 health and life sciences companies, including 250 MedTech firms and over 90 digital health enterprises, West Yorkshire is emerging as a top ten cluster due to its vibrant start-up culture, skilled graduates and strong research network. The 51,618 sector professionals across the region represent a 10% annual growth and Leeds has a significantly higher density of these employees than the national average. The UK is aiming to develop 21 million sq ft of lab space by 2030 and investment currently remains concentrated in established hubs. CBRE’s report shows increasing investor interest in the sector, with 58% of funding from Venture Capital funds into West Yorkshire going to life sciences and technology. However, if the region is going to continue to attract investment and retain home grown talent, it will need to address the supply issue. Jonathan Lowe, Head of Science & Technology for the North at CBRE, explains: “West Yorkshire has done a fantastic job of enabling start-ups to get established, evidenced by the fact that Leeds University’s Nexus incubator is nearing capacity, so the question now is where these companies will move to. The key is to keep that talent, innovation and the associated jobs within the region and provide a range of flexible space with a combination of offices, labs and industrial facilities to satisfy demand. It is important to encourage clustering to enable knowledge and resource sharing and avoid new facilities becoming too disbursed.” CBRE’s report shows there are 44 live occupier requirements in West Yorkshire, with remaining lab availability limited at Nexus in Leeds and Huddersfield’s 3M Buckley Innovation Centre. All of the available lab space across the region is within suites of 2,000 sq ft and below, leaving little room for growth. Most grow-on requirements start above 5,000 sq ft, therefore intervention is required to bridge this gap. Lowe continues: “The repurposing of office stock is certainly a viable solution, particularly for digital health companies who don’t typically require the same specific requirements of wet lab facilities. Redundant space within medical and university estates could present opportunities, providing the buildings have the underlying building infrastructure fundamentals within locations surrounding the key research institutions.” Looking ahead, there is 45,166 sq ft of lab and office space to come forward at Old Medical School in Leeds but this isn’t set to be available until 2027. The future development pipeline for West Yorkshire also includes future phases of Innovation Village in Leeds, the National Health Innovation Campus in Huddersfield and the focus in Bradford on the Knowledge Quarter. CBRE’s report concluded that the West Yorkshire life sciences sector holds significant growth potential and that by addressing specific real estate needs, fostering clustering and investing in targeted incubator and grow on development, the region can solidify its position as a competitive player in the UK life science landscape. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
New Uswitch analysis of government data has revealed the UK’s top-performing local authorities for renewable energy generation per household, with Moray in Scotland emerging as the national leader. Table 1: Top ten local authorities with the largest renewable energy capacity in megawatts per 1,000 households Rank Local authority Capacity in megawatts per 1,000 households 1 Moray 47.4 2 North East Lincolnshire 41.4 3 Boston 32.0 4 East Lothian 27.3 5 Highland 26.3 6 Lancaster 23.1 7 Dumfries and Galloway 18.9 8 North Norfolk 18.8 9 Argyll and Bute 17.3 10 East Suffolk 15.8 Moray leads the UK with 47.4 MW per 1,000 households, followed by North East Lincolnshire at 41.4 MW. Other notable regions include Boston (32.0 MW), East Lothian (27.3 MW), and Highland (26.3 MW). Scottish local authorities rank highly, reflecting a mix of strong investment and favourable conditions for wind power, such as higher wind speeds and suitable terrain. The data highlights how both geography and different local approaches play a role in shaping the UK’s renewable energy landscape. Areas with the most solar and wind power The UK regions with the highest solar, onshore, and offshore wind capacity per household (excluding other renewable sources due to data limitations). Solar photovoltaics: East Cambridgeshire leads with 4.4 MW per 1,000 households, followed by South Cambridgeshire (4.3 MW). Pembrokeshire and Torridge each generate 4.0 MW, with several rural areas making strong gains in solar capacity. Onshore wind: Highland tops the list with 18.3 MW per 1,000 households, followed by Dumfries and Galloway (13.1 MW) and South Ayrshire (12.7 MW), showcasing Scotland’s dominance in wind energy. Offshore wind: North East Lincolnshire leads with 40.4 MW per 1,000 homes, followed by Moray at 35.0 MW. Other key contributors include Boston and East Lothian, highlighting the importance of coastal regions in offshore wind generation. North East Lincolnshire’s growth is driven by major projects like the Hornsea Wind Farm series, Hornsea One and Two, with capacities of 1.2 GW and 1.4 GW respectively. They are the largest offshore wind farms in the world as part of Ørsted’s East Coast Hub in Grimsby. Table 2: Top ten local authorities with the largest growth in renewable energy capacity over 5 years (2018–2023) Rank Local authority Change in capacity over 5 years 1 North East Lincolnshire 1017% 2 Boston 985% 3 East Lothian 734% 4 Inverclyde 608% 5 Rugby 444% 6 Aberdeen City 437% 7 Sutton 273% 8 Hammersmith and Fulham 263% 9 Spelthorne 262% 10 Barnet 215% North East Lincolnshire leads with a 1,017% growth in renewable energy capacity from 2018 to 2023, followed by Boston (985%) and East Lothian (734%). Urban areas like Sutton, Hammersmith and Fulham, and Barnet also show substantial increases, reflecting rapid growth in both rural and urban renewable energy generation. Table 3: Five-year change in renewable energy types (2018–2023) Renewable energy type 5 year change (2023-2018) Offshore Wind 80.20% Municipal Solid Waste 37.10% Photovoltaics 24.30% Anaerobic Digestion 19.70% Onshore Wind 15.00% Sewage Gas 8.60% Plant Biomass 2.70% Hydro 0.70% Animal Biomass 0.00% Landfill Gas -0.30% Wave/Tidal -52.00% Methodology & Sources We took UK government data on renewable energy generation for the last 10 years and used it to calculate: Where local authority changes had taken place in the period covered data from the old authorities was grouped into the relevant new authority to allow for comparisons. https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/regional-renewable-statistics Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Earlier last week, the workplace and facilities management (WFM) community celebrated World FM Day and its theme of “Resilience in action: thriving in a world of change”. While professional resilience and organisational resilience are integral for the WFM sector to do its best work, IWFM’s Strategic Leaders Forum (SLF), Sustainability Special Interest Group (SIG) and Rising FMs explored the theme’s practicalities during an in-person and online event. At London’s Guildhall, the groups and attendees delved into the crucial role of resilience in ensuring the endurance and prosperity of heritage buildings. As WFM professionals pursue net zero, maximise the efficiency of buildings and respect historic architecture, what were the key takeaways shared? Heritage challenges: retrofitting historic buildings requires balancing preservation with modernisation, often facing structural limitations and strict regulations. Open communication with heritage authorities about the benefits of eco-friendly upgrades is critical, as is minimising disruption during upgrades through phased implementation and effective stakeholder coordination. Strategic sustainability: tailored climate action strategies, focused on decarbonisation through smart controls, insulation and renewable energy, are essential. Data-driven decisions, continuous monitoring and workforce training are also key to embedding positive sustainability practices. Climate resilience: With rising temperatures and increased extreme weather events, proactive adaptation is key.This entails risk assessments, early monitoring and climate-conscious design (like green roofs and shading). For heritage sites, vulnerability audits, stakeholder engagement and staff training in sustainable practices ensure the integrity of historic buildings in a warming climate. Additionally, the Skyline Skills Hub was highlighted, connecting the future of historic buildings to the insight and capabilities of today’s WFM professionals. Click here to access the event recording and click here to access the slides. Remember, IWFM hosts a suite of learning resources for professionals looking to achieve sustainability success. IWFM Certified or Fellow Member? Stay up to date with the latest news, expert insights and exclusive event invitations. Simply log in to your IWFM account and update your contact preferences by opting into the Strategic Leaders Forum. Need help? Watch their short video Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
