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Kenneth Booth
Salboy celebrates topping out milestone at Waterhouse Gardens - central Manchester’s last major regeneration site

Salboy celebrates topping out milestone at Waterhouse Gardens – central Manchester’s last major regeneration site

Kenneth Booth May 21, 2025

At 14-stories, Waterhouse Garden’s final and fifth residential building, reaches highest point Salboy Group, the nationwide property development and funding company, has ‘topped out’ on the last of the five buildings under construction at Waterhouse Gardens, the central Manchester scheme comprising 556 apartments and 30,000 sq ft of commercial space.

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Power on at Flintshire County Council’s first net-zero carbon school

Power on at Flintshire County Council’s first net-zero carbon school

Kenneth Booth May 21, 2025

With 1,080 solar panels on its roof, and a host of sustainable features, the new multi-million-pound campus, delivered by Robertson Construction North West on behalf of WEPco, is now Flintshire County Council’s first net-zero carbon in operation school. Flintshire County Council’s Climate Change Committee recently visited the Mynydd Isa Campus

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East Suffolk parish of Martlesham celebrates opening of 47 new homes

East Suffolk parish of Martlesham celebrates opening of 47 new homes

Kenneth Booth May 21, 2025

Representatives from government bodies, local councils and development partners gathered in the parish of Martlesham on 16 May to celebrate the opening of 47 new homes for local people in East Suffolk, providing much-needed affordable housing for the area. Hastoe Housing Association has worked in partnership with East Suffolk Council,

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Travelodge opens its doors in Bromsgrove

Travelodge opens its doors in Bromsgrove

Kenneth Booth May 20, 2025

Travelodge, the UK’s first budget hotel brand which operates over 610 hotels across the UK, Ireland and Spain, today announces it has opened the doors to a brand new 43-room hotel in Bromsgrove. Located just a 6-minute walk from Bromsgrove train station and a 30 minute drive away from Birmingham

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Barratt Backs Passivhaus: A Greener Future for London Homes

Barratt Backs Passivhaus: A Greener Future for London Homes

Kenneth Booth May 20, 2025

Barratt, the UK’s largest volume housebuilder, has announced a landmark move to futureproof its developments in the capital. Going forward, all of its new residential schemes in London will be built to meet or exceed the Passivhaus standard—setting a new benchmark in sustainable urban housing. The developer’s new ‘Lo-E’ (low

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Redcar’s Revival Begins: Work Starts on Flagship Cultural Hub

Redcar’s Revival Begins: Work Starts on Flagship Cultural Hub

Kenneth Booth May 20, 2025

Robertson Construction has broken ground on a landmark cultural and leisure development in the heart of Redcar, marking a major milestone in the town’s regeneration journey. Valued at approximately £17.4 million, the new library, entertainment and community complex is the centrepiece of the £25 million Redcar Town Deal — an

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"Imagine Liverpool" - New regeneration board established

“Imagine Liverpool” – New regeneration board established

Kenneth Booth May 20, 2025

A new team of experts tasked with supercharging a multi-billion pound regeneration drive in Liverpool, has been announced. Called Imagine Liverpool, the partnership – to be chaired by Patrick Nolan, former Vice Chairman, HSBC Global Banking & Markets – has been appointed to accelerate development within the city over the

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Latest Issue
Issue 331 : Aug 2025

Kenneth Booth

Salboy celebrates topping out milestone at Waterhouse Gardens - central Manchester’s last major regeneration site

Salboy celebrates topping out milestone at Waterhouse Gardens – central Manchester’s last major regeneration site

Kenneth Booth May 21, 2025

At 14-stories, Waterhouse Garden’s final and fifth residential building, reaches highest point Salboy Group, the nationwide property development and funding company, has ‘topped out’ on the last of the five buildings under construction at Waterhouse Gardens, the central Manchester scheme comprising 556 apartments and 30,000 sq ft of commercial space. Together with its dedicated construction partner, DOMIS, Salboy is preparing for the completion and handover of apartments in Phase 1 to residents by this summer, with the whole site on track to complete in Q1 2026. Waterhouse Gardens is a mixed-use development, specifically designed to create a dynamic and energetic new neighbourhood for Manchester’s students and young professionals, a few minutes’ walk away from the city’s main retail, business and nightlife districts.  With a maximum height of 25-storeys, the scheme will comprise 556 apartments, duplexes and penthouses, each catering to diverse needs but all offering stylish, contemporary living. Residents will have access to a private clubhouse offering high-end amenities including swimming pools, a squash/basketball court, lounges and a private cinema. Commercial space around the scheme will be home to boutique traders, independent restaurants and bars, and modern office and co-working spaces with their own private landscaped gardens. Running through the scheme will be a new public avenue, designed to foster a vibrant sense of community. Simon Ismail, Managing Director of Salboy, comments: “We are delighted to reach this important milestone at Waterhouse Gardens, a prestigious scheme that’s breathing life into a part of Manchester that was neglected and underinvested for almost twenty years. We’re committed to delivering an exceptional standard of living throughout the city and we’re excited to now bring that commitment to the students, graduates and young professionals who want to make Waterhouse Gardens their home as together they shape the future of Manchester. We are looking forward to the full completion later this year.” The scheme, designed by local architects Studio Power, celebrates the best that city centre living has to offer to Manchester’s increasingly young, professional and international population.  Sales for both phases of the Waterhouse Gardens scheme are ahead of targets. By early May 2025, 85% of Phase 1 apartments were sold, as were almost half of those in Phase 2. This comes as new Hamptons data shows that the North West is outperforming all other regions in England and Wales for off-plan apartment sales, including London.* Show homes are available on site, allowing prospective local owner occupiers to walk around and sample life on location. A number of discussions with prospective commercial tenants have also reached legal terms.  Kingsley Thornton, Managing Director at Domis, adds: “A project as ambitious and transformative as Waterhouse Gardens comes with its own complex challenges. Domis was faced with a significant shift in levels across the site requiring a very detailed and methodical approach to planning and coordination. Using this strategy, we were able to progress and work on multiple fronts simultaneously to maintain momentum across the scheme. We are very proud to be restoring a sense of community and prosperity to an area that was disused and unloved for far too long.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Poundland Faces Uncertain Future as Hundreds of Stores at Risk

Poundland Faces Uncertain Future as Hundreds of Stores at Risk

Kenneth Booth May 21, 2025

Up to 200 Poundland branches may be forced to close under the terms of a potential rescue deal, placing hundreds of jobs and high street presences at risk. The discount retail chain, which has been on the market since March, is attracting final bids this week. According to The Sunday Times, investment firm Gordon Brothers has emerged as the leading contender. Other interested parties include Hilco Capital, Endless, and Modella Capital — the private equity group behind The Original Factory Shop and the recent buyer of WHSmith’s high street business. With 825 stores nationwide, Poundland has struggled in the face of surging operating costs and growing pressure from major supermarket chains offering budget-friendly alternatives. The retailer’s parent company, Pepco Group, confirmed earlier this year that it is shifting focus away from fast-moving consumer goods in favour of higher-margin clothing and general merchandise. This strategic pivot includes “actively exploring separation options for Poundland, including a potential sale”. A spokesperson for the group added: “Poundland is executing a turnaround programme to get the business back on track, focusing on its core heritage strengths and a simpler pricing proposition and customer offer.” While a deal could inject much-needed direction for the embattled chain, the fate of hundreds of locations across the UK now hangs in the balance. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Power on at Flintshire County Council’s first net-zero carbon school

Power on at Flintshire County Council’s first net-zero carbon school

Kenneth Booth May 21, 2025

With 1,080 solar panels on its roof, and a host of sustainable features, the new multi-million-pound campus, delivered by Robertson Construction North West on behalf of WEPco, is now Flintshire County Council’s first net-zero carbon in operation school. Flintshire County Council’s Climate Change Committee recently visited the Mynydd Isa Campus in Mold, along with cabinet members, school representatives and the Welsh Education Partnership Company (WEPco) to find out more about the school’s sustainability credentials.  Attendees also powered up a specially commissioned neon sign with the word ‘Croeso’ (Welsh for ‘Welcome’) to symbolise the energy that the building is creating for itself.  The state-of-the-art school is one of the most energy-efficient in Wales, demonstrating Flintshire’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and creating a greener future. Being net zero in operation means Mynydd Isa Campus has been designed to produce as much energy as it uses, thanks to a range of energy-saving features. One of the standout components is the impressive solar panel system with photovoltaic cells covering approximately 80% of the roof, an area of over 2,500m².  These panels are expected to generate over 300,000 kWh of electricity each year, reducing carbon emissions by more than 70 tonnes annually. During the summer months, any extra electricity produced will be sent back to the grid. Due to the careful selection of materials which are less carbon intensive, the campus is also low in embodied carbon. Utilising air source heat pumps for heating and hot water, rather than fossil fuels, the campus also benefits from a special drainage system to manage rainwater naturally, helping to prevent flooding and support local wildlife.  The grounds have been designed to promote biodiversity, with green spaces, wildlife-friendly landscaping, and outdoor areas that encourage pupils to engage with nature. Recycled and low-carbon materials have also been used in the construction of the outdoor spaces including a play base made from recycled tyres. Active travel is encouraged through new dedicated cycling and walking routes and electric vehicle charging points.  The two-storey, 10,500m² campus is able to accommodate 1,300 pupils, including 43 nursery-age children, 600 primary pupils, and 700 high school students. All pupils will benefit from the cutting-edge facilities designed for 21st-century learning. High school pupils were first to move to the campus earlier in May, with the remainder of pupils moving in after the summer break.  Mynydd Isa Campus is being built through the WEPco, using the Mutual Investment Model (MIM) developed by the Welsh Government to fund major capital projects.  Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, said: “Delivering Mynydd Isa Campus as Flintshire’s first net-zero carbon in operation school marks a significant step forward for sustainable building in Wales.  “Collaborating with WEPCo and Flintshire County Council, this project underscores our dedication to delivering projects that support communities and promote a sustainable future. We will continue to maintain the campus through Robertson Facilities Management and look forward to being part of the community for many years to come.” Flintshire County Council Cabinet member for Education, Welsh Language, Culture and Leisure, Councillor Mared Eastwood said: “I was delighted to represent the Council’s Climate Change committee and see this remarkable project coming to life. It not only reflects our commitment to high-quality education but also to a greener, more sustainable future for our children.” The Welsh Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Education Lynne Neagle said: “I am delighted that the new Mynydd Isa Campus is open for learners. “So many pupils will benefit from these outstanding facilities which are net zero in operation, embedding our commitments towards reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change. We are not just building a school, we’re creating an environment where the next generation can learn first-hand about sustainability.” Neil Cutting, Project Director at WEPCo, said: “We’re delighted with the net zero carbon solution for this project. A first of its kind for MIM, we are thrilled with the completed building which demonstrates how state of the art education facilities can be built responsibly. “Together with our construction partners, WEPCo is proud to have been entrusted with delivering this special 3-16 education campus for Flintshire County Council and the communities of Mynydd Isa, now and into the future. Diolch yn fawr.” The school is part of the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, which is focused on modernising school buildings with sustainability at its heart. The project highlights the wider commitment of Flintshire County Council to tackle climate change and ensure that public buildings are built with the future in mind. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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East Suffolk parish of Martlesham celebrates opening of 47 new homes

East Suffolk parish of Martlesham celebrates opening of 47 new homes

Kenneth Booth May 21, 2025

Representatives from government bodies, local councils and development partners gathered in the parish of Martlesham on 16 May to celebrate the opening of 47 new homes for local people in East Suffolk, providing much-needed affordable housing for the area. Hastoe Housing Association has worked in partnership with East Suffolk Council, Martlesham Parish Council and Homes England to deliver the new homes, which constitute Hastoe’s largest land-led development to date. All homes have been built to Hastoe’s New Build Standard, which substantially exceeds Building Regulation Standard. The homes include Future Homes Standard construction elements to reduce carbon emissions, and feature air source heat pumps, double glazing, LED lighting, increased insulation levels and electric vehicle charging points for every home. The development site also includes lots of open space and a small play area for residents. There is a newly created path and a 28-space car park to improve access to the nearby parish play park. Martlesham Parish Councillor Jane Hall said: “Martlesham Parish Council fully supports a vision for a well-integrated Martlesham community, containing a variety of well-designed housing types which meet the needs of residents of all ages and build on Martlesham’s strength as a welcoming, safe and peaceful place to live, with a strong sense of community. Developments such as this help to achieve this vision. We are delighted to welcome our new Hastoe residents and wish them every happiness as they move into their stunning new homes.” East Suffolk District Councillor Mark Packard said: “This is exactly the kind of affordable housing we need in Suffolk; excellent design and a high-quality finish. Once the residents have settled in, it will be important for them to build a community; I’m sure the Parish Council will help them to do this.” James Hick, Affordable Housing Delivery Manager at Homes England, said: “As the government’s housing and regeneration agency, increasing the supply of quality affordable homes remains one of our key objectives and we are committed to supporting stakeholders of all sizes to achieve their ambitions. It is great to see that funding from the Affordable Homes Programme has enabled this development and provided much-needed new homes in Martlesham.” Lindy Morgan, Hastoe Board Chair, said: “As our largest land-led development to date, Martlesham is a very special development for Hastoe. All 47 homes are energy efficient, built to an extremely high-quality finish and benefit from beautiful design which suits the local area. Hastoe’s commitment to this project is now to care for the homes and provide excellent services to our residents, long into the future.” Jenny Riddell-Carpenter, MP for Suffolk Coastal, was also able to visit the site and meet with residents later the same week. She said: “This development is a great example of the kind of truly affordable homes to rent and buy that we urgently need more of. It’s helping local people stay rooted in their community, and I was delighted to see the real difference it’s already making.” Works began on site in October 2023 and completions have taken place over a phased period. Development partners were architects Ingleton Wood, Rose Builders Ltd and employer’s agent Potter Raper. Hastoe invested £9,634,717 in the development, together with a £3,534,000 Homes England grant. In total, the development cost £13,168,717. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Green Shoots: UK Commercial Property Market Sees Steady Growth in April

Green Shoots: UK Commercial Property Market Sees Steady Growth in April

Kenneth Booth May 20, 2025

The gradual recovery of the UK commercial real estate market continued into April 2025, with the latest CBRE UK Monthly Index reporting modest yet consistent growth in capital values and rental returns. Capital values across all property sectors edged up by 0.2% in April, maintaining the steady momentum seen throughout the first quarter of the year. Rental values followed suit, also rising by 0.2%, while total returns for the month reached 0.7%. Retail assets led the market for the fourth month in a row, delivering the highest total return of 0.8%. This was driven by a 0.6% income return and a 0.2% increase in capital values. Within the retail sector, Retail Warehouses posted the strongest performance, with a 0.3% rise in capital values, while Standard Shops and Shopping Centres both saw gains of 0.2%. Retail rental values grew by 0.3% overall. The office sector posted total returns of 0.6% for the month. Central London offices performed particularly well, with capital values rising by 0.7%. Offices in the rest of the UK experienced a 0.1% increase, while Outer London and M25 offices recorded a slight dip of 0.2%. Nevertheless, rental values across all office segments rose by 0.2%. Industrial assets mirrored the overall market trend, returning 0.6% in April. Both capital and rental values increased by 0.2%, with little disparity between the South East and the rest of the UK. Steven Devaney, Senior Director of UK Research at CBRE, commented:“Rental growth continued to support the gradual rebound in capital values during April. While yields were largely unchanged, we’re seeing a narrowing gap between vendor and purchaser price expectations. Last week’s cut to the UK Bank Rate—and the possibility of further reductions—could help ease borrowing costs and influence bond yields, potentially paving the way for increased activity in the second half of the year.” With inflation moderating and confidence slowly returning to the market, investors may find cautious optimism in the current trajectory of the UK’s commercial property landscape. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Travelodge opens its doors in Bromsgrove

Travelodge opens its doors in Bromsgrove

Kenneth Booth May 20, 2025

Travelodge, the UK’s first budget hotel brand which operates over 610 hotels across the UK, Ireland and Spain, today announces it has opened the doors to a brand new 43-room hotel in Bromsgrove. Located just a 6-minute walk from Bromsgrove train station and a 30 minute drive away from Birmingham Airport, the hotel offers excellent transport links.  Guests can explore a range of local attractions, including scenic walks in the parkland of Hagley Hall and the Walton and Clent Hills. Sanders Park, the Norton Collection Museum, and the historic St John’s Church are all within a mile of the hotel. For day trips, the historic city of Worcester and the West Midland Safari Park are both a short drive away. A variety of restaurants and cafés are also located nearby, perfect for dining after a day out. The hotel features Travelodge’s new, premium look and feel design which includes a newly designed reception area and next generation rooms – offering everything a business or leisure guest needs for a comfortable and relaxing stay.  This hotel is a former Ibis, acquired as part of Travelodge’s UK development strategy to expand through rebrand acquisitions of existing hotels that meet its locational and branding criteria. Travelodge continues to grow rapidly, with a strong commitment to expanding its hotel network to give customers more choice while supporting local communities through nationwide job creation. The company already operates 22 hotels across Birmingham. Steve Bennett, Chief Property and Development Officer, Travelodge, comments:  “We’re thrilled to officially open our new Bromsgrove hotel. It’s a fantastic spot for both business and leisure travellers, and we’re excited to welcome guests to the newest addition to our growing UK portfolio. With around 600 Travelodge hotels now open across the country, we’re aiming to add 300 more locations, including 20 in the Midlands region. This expansion will create new jobs and offer even more choice and great value for our customers visiting the area and beyond.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Barratt Backs Passivhaus: A Greener Future for London Homes

Barratt Backs Passivhaus: A Greener Future for London Homes

Kenneth Booth May 20, 2025

Barratt, the UK’s largest volume housebuilder, has announced a landmark move to futureproof its developments in the capital. Going forward, all of its new residential schemes in London will be built to meet or exceed the Passivhaus standard—setting a new benchmark in sustainable urban housing. The developer’s new ‘Lo-E’ (low energy) design approach promises to deliver homes that are not only environmentally responsible but also significantly more affordable to run. Residents can expect up to 80% savings on heating and hot water bills compared to conventional district heating systems, alongside up to 90% reductions in carbon emissions. Passivhaus is an internationally recognised standard for ultra-efficient buildings, requiring minimal energy for heating or cooling. In response to London’s growing need for sustainable and resilient housing, Barratt is committing to this standard across all future developments in the city. The first Lo-E homes will be delivered at High Barnet, in partnership with Places for London. This scheme will deliver approximately 300 homes—40% of which will be classed as affordable. Every affordable home on the site will be built to Lo-E specifications, a commitment that will extend to all future London developments. Together with a parallel scheme at Bollo Lane, Acton, Barratt is aiming to develop 728 Lo-E homes across the capital in its initial phase—one of the largest Passivhaus rollouts in the UK to date. Craig Carson, Managing Director at Barratt West London, said: “Our Lo-E concept rethinks the traditional approach to high-density housing. It’s a response to the unique climate and affordability challenges we face in London. We’re proud to lead the way in delivering low-carbon, future-ready homes at scale.” Lo-E homes will incorporate key features such as advanced façade engineering to minimise solar gain, triple-glazed Passivhaus windows for superior thermal insulation, and climate-resilient air tempering systems to filter and improve indoor air quality. For residents, the benefits go well beyond environmental impact. In addition to lower running costs, the homes promise improved indoor comfort and health—particularly during the colder months—while reducing reliance on energy sources susceptible to price volatility. Barratt’s shift to Passivhaus is backed by positive feedback from local authorities and the Greater London Authority. Pending planning approvals, the company aims to roll out its new model across all its future developments in the capital. This bold step positions Barratt at the forefront of sustainable housebuilding in the UK, signalling a clear intent to lead the capital’s transition to greener, more energy-efficient living. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Mitie Secures £12m Facilities Management Contract with Intellectual Property Office

Mitie Secures £12m Facilities Management Contract with Intellectual Property Office

Kenneth Booth May 20, 2025

Outsourcing and FM specialist Mitie has been awarded a £12 million contract to deliver integrated facilities management services across the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) estate in Newport, Wales. Under the three-year agreement—renewable for an additional two years—Mitie will provide a full suite of services including engineering, cleaning, and waste management across the IPO’s two main sites. Existing facilities staff at the IPO will transfer to Mitie under TUPE regulations. The IPO, officially operating as the Patent Office, plays a central role in administering the UK’s intellectual property rights, including patents, trademarks, copyright, and design protections. Abigail Henry, Head of Facilities Management at the IPO, welcomed the new partnership: “The IPO is very pleased to welcome Mitie as our new Total Facilities Management provider here at our offices in Newport. We’re very much looking forward to working in partnership with Mitie to deliver high-quality and innovative facilities management services. Our relationship with Mitie will help ensure the effective maintenance of our estate – promoting efficiencies while helping us reach our goals through a range of innovative initiatives.” Jason Towse, Managing Director of Business Services at Mitie, added: “We’re pleased to support the smooth running of the IPO’s estate in Newport through full-service Integrated Facilities Management, expertly delivered by our colleagues. “With our commitment to deliver better places and support thriving communities, we’re also bringing our decarbonisation and sustainability expertise to support the IPO’s net zero targets. We’re proud to have a positive local impact by generating jobs with Mitie in Newport and providing development opportunities for colleagues to build long-lasting and fulfilling careers.” The contract highlights Mitie’s continued role in supporting major public sector estates, while aligning with the IPO’s goals for operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Redcar’s Revival Begins: Work Starts on Flagship Cultural Hub

Redcar’s Revival Begins: Work Starts on Flagship Cultural Hub

Kenneth Booth May 20, 2025

Robertson Construction has broken ground on a landmark cultural and leisure development in the heart of Redcar, marking a major milestone in the town’s regeneration journey. Valued at approximately £17.4 million, the new library, entertainment and community complex is the centrepiece of the £25 million Redcar Town Deal — an initiative aimed at breathing new life into the town centre and driving long-term economic growth. The multi-use development will be situated between the Esplanade and the High Street, transforming a key gateway between the beachfront and the town centre. Once complete, it will feature a new library designed to support digital inclusion, community learning, and children’s literacy through an immersive storytelling space and dedicated makerspace. In addition to family-focused entertainment and events facilities, the building will maximise natural light and coastal views, with architectural elements inspired by Redcar’s seaside identity. The project follows the demolition of the former M&S and Goodwins buildings, and extensive coordination with neighbouring property owners during design and preparation works. The development is expected to generate local employment opportunities, attract more visitors, and offer a welcome boost to Redcar’s high street businesses. Robertson is also nearing completion of another significant project in the town — the transformation of the Grade II listed Central Station. That scheme is supported by the government’s Levelling Up Partnership fund, Welcome to Redcar and Cleveland, Tees Valley Combined Authority, and the Railway Heritage Trust. Neil Kennedy, regional managing director at Robertson Construction North East, commented: “We are proud to be leading delivery of this transformative project and to continue our strong partnership with Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council. This scheme represents a vital step in regenerating the town, creating local jobs and establishing a vibrant new community asset.” Catherine Clennett, chair of the Redcar Town Deal, added: “We’re thrilled to see the development now under way. This new space will connect the esplanade to the high street, offering both indoor and outdoor venues that enhance the town for residents and visitors alike. It’s an important investment in Redcar’s future.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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"Imagine Liverpool" - New regeneration board established

“Imagine Liverpool” – New regeneration board established

Kenneth Booth May 20, 2025

A new team of experts tasked with supercharging a multi-billion pound regeneration drive in Liverpool, has been announced. Called Imagine Liverpool, the partnership – to be chaired by Patrick Nolan, former Vice Chairman, HSBC Global Banking & Markets – has been appointed to accelerate development within the city over the coming decade. Imagine Liverpool will consist of 13 board members including former economic adviser to Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Lord Stewart Wood, and Liverpool-born, BAFTA-winning producer Jimmy Mulville. The team of national and international experts, whose formation has been endorsed by Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner, MP, have been given a brief to act as ambassadors and advisors for Liverpool, with the aim of helping to give confidence to investors, landowners, developers and occupiers in the reshaping of the city’s economic landscape. The new team gathered for their first meeting in Liverpool today (Monday, 19 May) before a delegation heads to the UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum, tomorrow, to promote investment opportunities in the city. A recruitment drive for the board was announced last Autumn with a brief to “provide strategic leadership to drive forward regeneration opportunities, accelerate development, and enhance the quality of life for the city’s residents”, in a new phase in the development of the city. As one of the fastest growing cites in the UK, Liverpool City Council wants to take advantage of brownfield sites to deliver thousands of quality new homes to meet the governments housing targets. It also wants to focus on the specialisms of the city in health and life science, creative and digital, maritime and advanced manufacturing to innovate, accelerate job creation and diversify the economy. One area of focus will be Liverpool’s iconic waterfront and docks. Capitalising on Everton FC’s arrival at Bramley Moore Dock, and the private sector investment from the Fredkin Group, as well as nearby schemes backed by Tom Morris and Global Port Holdings, Imagine Liverpool will oversee the establishment of the emerging Locally Led Urban Development Corporation for the city’s North Docks to support and accelerate development. The board will also input into the New Town bid which aims to create an urban extension in North Liverpool. Developed jointly with Sefton Council, this ambitious long-term vision to revitalise this key part of the city includes plans to develop 10,000 new homes.    In addition to having oversight into an existing pipeline of major projects, including Festival Gardens, Kings Dock, Paddington Village South and the Littlewoods TV and Film Studios, the new board will have a strategic overview on regeneration city wide. They will also advise on the city narrative that builds a strong investable proposition to secure private and institutional investment, foreign investment, and future allocations from government. Imagine Liverpool was a key recommendation of the Liverpool Strategic Futures Advisory Panel, chaired by Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram with support from Baroness Judith Blake and the late Sir Howard Bernstein. The Imagine Liverpool team will be supported by the Council’s City Development Team. Imagine Liverpool – board members: REACTION Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner, MP, said: “Liverpool is a world-famous city with a rich history and a bold vision for the future. It’s fantastic to see this new partnership bring together leading experts to help unlock even more of that potential, with new investment, homes and jobs that will create real, lasting change for local people. “Through our Plan for Change we are building the 1.5 million high-quality homes and vital infrastructure that communities like Liverpool are crying out for. Imagine Liverpool is exactly the kind of ambitious, locally-led transformation we want to see, and we’ll work hand in hand with the city to make it happen.” Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “The establishment of Imagine Liverpool is a major milestone in our ongoing regeneration story and a new chapter for the city. Liverpool is on the cusp of delivering some truly transformational schemes, especially in the docks and north of the city, and we need to ensure the opportunities arising from the momentum we’re creating is fully maximised. “We have assembled an immensely diverse, talented and experienced board and I look forward to working with Patrick and all the members to inject a new energy into our plans for the city and fully realise Liverpool’s amazing potential. I know the Council and the Combined Authority are as one in our desire to improve how we work with the private sector and with government to make this one of the most exciting city regions to live and work in.” Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram said: “This is a major step forward for Liverpool—one rooted in the vision and hard graft of the Strategic Futures Advisory Panel that I was proud to chair. “We were clear that the city needed a new kind of regeneration partnership, one that works with local communities and brings in the right expertise to unlock Liverpool’s full potential. The new body does exactly that. With the right team in place, this next decade could see the biggest transformation in a generation delivering new homes, better jobs, and the kind of investment that genuinely improves people’s lives.” Patrick Nolan, Chair of the Imagine Liverpool board, said: “I’m delighted and honoured to be asked to join and Chair Imagine Liverpool. The global brand of Liverpool is truly incredible, and there is so much opportunity here. “I’ve been hugely impressed by the vision, drive and commitment of the Mayor Steve Rotheram and Cllr Liam Robinson, as well as the Liverpool City Council team.  Their establishment of a highly experienced advisory board to help them deliver the regeneration plan is a clear sign of intent. I’d like to think we can help Liverpool reach its full potential as a place to live and work.   “There has been a huge amount of positive work done in Liverpool over the past 20 years – but there is still so much more to do, particularly north of the city where our

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