Bobcat is presenting several new developments at LogiMAT 2025 as part of a comprehensive display of the company’s material handling product lines, including diesel, LPG and electric forklifts, reach trucks and warehouse equipment such as pallet trucks and stackers. Bobcat is showing three new developments in the range including: Introducing
To help businesses streamline heavy lifting operations with safer, more efficient, and cost-effective solutions, Hendrik Veder Group UK has strengthened its strategic alliance with Lift-Tex®. This partnership will ensure that industries reliant on heavy lifting across the UK, including maritime, shipping, construction, oil and gas, and renewables, will gain direct
The ‘unintended consequences’ of High Street Rental Auction powers given to local councils must be considered by the UK Government, the NAEA Propertymark Commercial Advisory Panel has suggested. The Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government (MHLCG) has confirmed that more vacant shops and other empty premises will be
Women in construction are breaking barriers, driving change, and shaping the future of the industry. Their voices and experiences prove that progress is happening – but there’s still more to be done. This International Women’s Day, British Gypsum and Isover – businesses that are part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions –
A new landmark in adaptive reuse and sustainable development… The Elephant, a landmark building undergoing a transformative £132m redevelopment in the heart of the capital, has officially reached its topping-out milestone. The iconic former House of Fraser building at 318 Oxford Street, London W1 is being reimagined as a vibrant
Residential developer McLaren Living has received planning permission for a 314-home build-to-rent (BTR) mixed-use scheme in Watford, Hertfordshire. The development will transform the former Watford Police Station and Magistrates Court on Clarendon Road, incorporating co-living units alongside the residential offering. The 1.75-acre brownfield site will also feature a new public
Providing user demanded performance, MILWAUKEE® introduces the next generation of deep cut band saws, the M18 FUEL™ Deep Cut Band Saw Gen 2 and the M18 FUEL™ Dual-Trigger Deep Cut Band Saw with ONE-KEY™, delivering an overall better cutting performance for users. The next generation of band saws are the
Work will complete this spring on a multi-million-pound state-of-the-art incinerator at Newton Aycliffe in County Durham that will process up to 10,500 tonnes of clinical and hazardous waste each year and transform it into a low-carbon heat source for local businesses. The 75,000 sq ft facility at Merchant Park is
Global real estate firm Avison Young UK has been appointed by the University of Kent as a strategic advisor to bring its Northern Land Holdings in Canterbury to market. Spanning 97 hectares (240 acres) the site has the potential to deliver around 2,000 new homes, commercial uses and supporting social
While construction often brings to mind images of building sites and hard hats, the industry is powered by a vast network of professionals working behind the scenes to bring developments to life. This International Women’s Day, Harron Homes is celebrating the women who play crucial roles in shaping its success—driving
Bobcat is presenting several new developments at LogiMAT 2025 as part of a comprehensive display of the company’s material handling product lines, including diesel, LPG and electric forklifts, reach trucks and warehouse equipment such as pallet trucks and stackers. Bobcat is showing three new developments in the range including: Introducing Bobcat Lithium (Li-ION) Batteries At LogiMAT 2025, Bobcat is announcing the upcoming launch of the company’s new Li-ION battery range, available in various capacity options. This reliable, high-quality battery technology has been developed by Bobcat and will be installed in each series. With a lifespan 2–3 times longer than lead-acid batteries – plus fast, efficient charging – lithium battery power can ensure that work can be kept flowing more flexibly. Moreover, with a 5-year/10,000 hour warranty and seamless forklift integration, Bobcat’s lithium batteries deliver lasting value for any application. Key specifications include: • 400 and 600 Ah available for each voltage • Integrated with truck CANBUS, no need for a separate display • Cell chemistry: LiFePO4 (LFP) = Lithium iron (ferro) phosphate • Heat management system applied • Monitoring and diagnostics app available New Bobcat Li-ION Chargers The battery range is complemented by new Li-ION Chargers from Bobcat. The chargers are optimised for quick and reliable charging, ensuring equipment is powered and running efficiently. Where the customer needs a rapid stand-alone charger, Bobcat Li-ION Chargers provide the flexibility and performance to keep operations running smoothly. New Warehouse Equipment (Class 3) Bobcat is updating its warehouse equipment portfolio with three new product series. In addition, the company’s current LSM12N-7 and BSL12/16N-7 stackers are now available in initial lift versions. The new warehouse products will also be available with Li-ION batteries from production. New warehouse product series: • BPM16/20N-7: pedestrian powered pallet trucks: 1.6 & 2 t capacity • BPR20/25N-7: powered pallet trucks with platform: 2 & 2.5 t capacity • BSR12/16N-7: powered platform stacker trucks: 1.2 & 1.6 t capacity • BSR16N-7i: powered platform stacker truck with initial lift: 1.6 t capacity The new BPM16/20N-7 pallet trucks are the perfect match for all kinds of applications in and around SMEs, manufacturing and warehousing. The long tiller arm provides optimal, highly ergonomic operation. It requires less effort, and the operator maintains an optimal distance from the truck. Top-quality components, robust construction, a travel speed up to 6 km/h, and simplified maintenance make the pallet trucks in this series reliable partners for every task. The BPR20/25N-7 powered platform pallet trucks feature a travel speed of up to 8 km/h, ensuring the trucks are built for optimal horizontal transportation over extended distances. Equipped with Electric Power Steering (EPS), these trucks offer ergonomic and safe operation. The suspension flip-down platform minimizes body vibrations, and the sideways protective arms provide additional stability and protect the operator during turns. In walking operation mode, the platform and arms are folded compactly within the truck’s outline, conserving space. The 1.2 and 1.6 t capacity BSR12/16N-7 powered platform stacker trucks are designed for high efficiency, excelling in storage and picking operations involving heavy weights. The ergonomic, suspension flip-down platform – paired with protective arms – greatly enhances operational efficiency. These trucks are capable of reaching lift heights up to 5.5 m and they are also perfect for tasks over extended distances. Thanks to the robust 8 mm metal skirt, strong chassis, durable mast and metal battery cover – along with premium components from leading suppliers – these models lower service costs and ensure constant readiness for professional use. The EPS system, coupled with the proportional lifting function, enables smooth and effortless stacking operations. Bobcat’s First Li-ION 3-wheel Forklifts The company is introducing the BNT series, Bobcat’s first Li-ION 3-wheel forklifts, designed for light to medium-duty applications. These models — B16NT, B18NT and B20NT — offer a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution tailored to the growing electric forklift market. The new range extends Bobcat’s electric counterbalanced line-up. Manoeuvrability is the key aspect in the design of these forklifts, making them ideal for use in tight environments. Despite their compact size, these forklifts boast an ergonomic design that ensures large leg room and exceptional operating comfort for the operator. Setting a new standard in confined space material handling, these forklifts provide a smooth ride and high stability in every job. Three different load capacity models are available: • B16NT – 1.6 t load capacity at 500 mm • B18NT – 1.8 t load capacity at 500 mm • B20NT – 2.0 t load capacity at 500 mm Key Highlights • Dual Drive: equipped with 4.5 kW dual-drive motors to boost productivity • Maintenance-free 51.2V 300 Ah Li-ION (LFP) battery and 150A charger (380V) • Comfortable dimensions: designed for compact environments, while still offering comfortable spacious dimensions for the operator Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
To help businesses streamline heavy lifting operations with safer, more efficient, and cost-effective solutions, Hendrik Veder Group UK has strengthened its strategic alliance with Lift-Tex®. This partnership will ensure that industries reliant on heavy lifting across the UK, including maritime, shipping, construction, oil and gas, and renewables, will gain direct access to the Lift-Tex® advanced Extreema® round sling product line, known for its superior strength, flexibility, and ease of use. As a key supplier of Lift-Tex® Extreema round slings in the UK, Hendrik Veder Group UK has reinforced its position as a provider of premium heavy lifting solutions. This collaboration is particularly valuable for the growing renewable sector, where the slings play a critical role in handling and transporting the blades used in offshore wind farm foundations. Manufactured in the Netherlands, the Extreema® slings incorporate cutting-edge ‘parallel laid fibre technology,’ making them up to eight times stronger than steel on a weight-for-weight basis. They also reduce overall weight by up to 80% compared to wire rope, making lifting operations safer, more flexible, and more cost-efficient. By integrating these high-performance slings into its offering, Hendrik Veder Group UK enhances its ability to support businesses in achieving safer and more efficient lifting operations. Bertwin Zonneveld, Managing Director of Hendrik Veder Group UK, commented: “This collaboration is a strategic step forward for our customers. By bringing Lift-Tex®’s innovative Extreema® slings to the UK market, we provide industries with a lifting solution that is lighter, safer, and more durable than traditional alternatives. Whether for long-standing marine and shipping clients or those developing the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure, this partnership ensures that our customers receive the best lifting technologies available. We look forward to connecting Lift-Tex® products to our loyal customers.” Bert Snel, Director of Lift-Tex added: “We are committed to supporting lifting requirements worldwide, and the long-term partnership with Hendrik Veder Group allows us to do just that. Our Extreema® slings have already proven their value across Europe, and through Hendrik Veder Group UK’s strong network, we are confident they will make a difference to UK industries, particularly in the fast-growing renewables sector.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The ‘unintended consequences’ of High Street Rental Auction powers given to local councils must be considered by the UK Government, the NAEA Propertymark Commercial Advisory Panel has suggested. The Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government (MHLCG) has confirmed that more vacant shops and other empty premises will be transformed as councils use their new powers to revive high streets throughout England, which is part of the UK Government’s growth mission. High Street Rental Auctions powers, which provide local councils the power to auction off leases for commercial properties that have been vacant for a considerable period, will be implemented by eight more local councils that have committed to this programme. Councils include Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, Broxtowe Borough Council, Camden London Borough Council, Hillingdon London Borough Council, Lichfield District Council, North Northamptonshire Council, North Somerset Council and Westminster City Council. This brings the total number of councils signed up to the programme to 11, as Bassetlaw, Darlington and Mansfield councils became Early Adopters in November to set an example to other councils. Propertymark supports the scheme, but when the professional body responded to the public consultation on the measures back in July 2023, they recommended that local authorities should have the power to design and implement High Street Rental Auctions as they see fit depending on their area. It also encouraged councils to guarantee that properties subject to a High Street Rental Auction have a reserve price to safeguard market prices and to ensure the price covers the costs of any mortgages. Michael Sears, NAEA Propertymark Commercial Advisory Panel member, comments: “The UK Government needs to consider the main unintended consequence of these measures. In areas where there are high numbers of vacancies, by auctioning off property where supply outstrips demand, this could only result in rents being driven down further, and investment in town centres where returns would be low would cease. The effect of this would be negative towards regeneration and inward investment. “When a commercial rent review is due, are the results of high street auctions going to be used as evidence of market price by tenants’ surveyors? In which case commercial property investment and lending on commercial property could become problematic, given the heightened risk. There needs to be protections in place to avoid this downward spiral.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Women in construction are breaking barriers, driving change, and shaping the future of the industry. Their voices and experiences prove that progress is happening – but there’s still more to be done. This International Women’s Day, British Gypsum and Isover – businesses that are part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions – are proudly celebrating the women who are making an impact in the construction sector. By sharing their stories, we’re championing their achievements, amplifying their voices, and paving the way for an even more inclusive industry. Katie Anderson is Performance Manager at British Gypsum East Leake Works which produces bagged plaster and plasterboard. She has seen the business take proactive steps to help more women into its workforce. “We have got a lot more women coming through which is great,” she said. “It will take a while to change but I definitely see positive movement in that regard.” Katie joined British Gypsum in 2019 as a project leader and has progressed rapidly through the ranks. She is encouraging other women to consider construction manufacturing as a fulfilling career. “British Gypsum has really helped me with my training,” she added. “So even if you don’t have the skills initially, they can help you to develop those skills.” However, Katie says she still occasionally encounters gender bias. “Sometimes it can take a bit more time to build up a rapport or respect with people, it’s important to get to know people as individuals and learn to communicate with them in the most appropriate way.” Last year, Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions supported the launch of I am a Housebuilder. Founded by a cross-parliamentary group, it aims to grow the number of women working in the housebuilding industry. It is fronted by seven women who hold prominent roles in construction – dubbed the Magnificent 7. One of them is Xuan Meng, CEO of Cozy Haus. She started in property development after taking maternity leave from an investment fund. “It took me a lot of effort and mental determination to plunge myself into building Cozy Haus because it is something I’ve never done,” she said. “I thought to myself, if I could make this a success, it could give me the flexibility to be my own boss and also the flexibility to look after my daughter and the financial stability I wanted for my family. This was my chance, I took it, and I think that it was the best decision I ever made.” Cozy Haus now employs over 30 people and has more female staff than male. “I think that 60% of our staff members are female and a lot of them are single mums,” added Xuan. “I believe that, because you are a mum, you have more reasons to work hard not only because you have to provide financially but also because you have to lead by example.” As part of their mentoring programme, each of the Magnificent 7 will give one-to-one mentoring to women taking their first steps into the housebuilding sector. Georgina Hammond, Co-Founder of Beau Property, has taken 21-year-old graduate Abbi Bird under her wing as her mentee. Abbi saw the Magnificent 7 announced on LinkedIn and reached out to them about mentorship. She first became interested in construction aged 13 when her dad asked her to help with a building project. As a teenager she relentlessly pursued her passion, even switching schools to study construction and engineering before going on to complete a university degree. She is now shadowing Georgina while looking to start her career in construction management. “I really want to help her to navigate her career, to grow within her next role and be able to set goals for what her career is going to look like,” said Georgina. “I hope that she achieves becoming an MD of a PLC housebuilder because I know that she’s got it in her. She’s incredibly determined, she’s so enthusiastic, and she loves building houses. She’s incredibly technically minded. “It is so amazing and encouraging that people from that next generation have the enthusiasm and want to get into this industry because they feel so passionately about it and love it. So, I think from Abbi’s perspective, the sky is the limit and she can achieve anything. “Women need this support in an industry that is male dominated. I think that if we had this conversation again in ten years’ time, that would look very different. But while we go through that transition period, there needs to be role models and support for women that are making the move to enter this industry, to help them thrive.” The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is Accelerate Action, focusing on driving progress for gender equality. Rachel Kelly, Head of Brand for British Gypsum and Isover said: “We are proud to support International Women’s Day and are accelerating our efforts to bring talented women into our workforce. “Women remain underrepresented in construction, facing barriers such as gender bias, lack of career visibility, and limited opportunities for progression. We are committed to addressing these challenges by amplifying female voices, promoting inclusivity and providing pathways for women to thrive in the sector.” The Building Better Hub provides resources and talking points on workforce gender diversity and other major industry issues. To hear more from some of the industry leaders featured in this article or to discover more about what women in construction have to say, visit the Building Better hub: https://www.saint-gobain.co.uk/building-better-hub/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new landmark in adaptive reuse and sustainable development… The Elephant, a landmark building undergoing a transformative £132m redevelopment in the heart of the capital, has officially reached its topping-out milestone. The iconic former House of Fraser building at 318 Oxford Street, London W1 is being reimagined as a vibrant mixed-use office and retail destination, featuring a marquee restaurant on the 8th floor with 360-degree views across the city. Set for completion in autumn 2026, The Elephant will offer 366,000ft² of premium commercial space including a state-of-the-art gym, a 25-metre swimming pool, and 42,600ft² of retail units. The project has been designed to preserve and enhance the structure with upmost attention to adapting the existing building structure and minimizing embodied carbon. The plans include the provision of new, attractive shopfronts, extensive refurbishment of the existing façade, and the creation of highly flexible, open floorplates for varied uses. They are also incorporating a large-scale elephant sculpture crafted from recycled steel, symbolising the project’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in urban placemaking. On the interior, the existing sixth and seventh floors have been removed and replaced with three new floors. Originally constructed in 1937 with high-quality materials that have stood the test of time, the iconic building is being carefully restored to retain its historical integrity, while embracing modern green building standards. The redevelopment process includes a focus on key features such as the grand double-height entrance preserved to maintain the building’s original character and a transition from gas boilers to energy efficient air-source heat pumps. Paul Davis, director at project and cost management firm MGAC, comments: ‘‘The Elephant exemplifies a forward-thinking approach that minimises environmental impact. The conversion from gas boilers to air-source heat pumps is a direct response to tenant requirements for greener infrastructure, reinforcing the building’s future-proof credentials. Located within a conservation area, the project underscores the importance of adaptive reuse in an evolving urban landscape. This moment marks a significant step forward for this landmark building as well as our firm commitment to set a new benchmark for responsible urban regeneration in London”. Through a heritage-led approach, the revitalization improves the streetscape while integrating cutting-edge energy efficiency measures. The project aims to achieve a high BREEAM rating, with improved ventilation strategies to enhance air quality and reduce airborne disease transmission. MGAC is providing project management, cost management, and health + safety services for the project which is reflective of a wider shift in the industry to reduce embodied carbon through the strategic reuse of existing building materials. The topping out ceremony will take place on 28 February 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Residential developer McLaren Living has received planning permission for a 314-home build-to-rent (BTR) mixed-use scheme in Watford, Hertfordshire. The development will transform the former Watford Police Station and Magistrates Court on Clarendon Road, incorporating co-living units alongside the residential offering. The 1.75-acre brownfield site will also feature a new public green square, 31,441 sq ft of workspace, 4,485 sq ft of retail space, including a café, and approximately 6,000 sq ft of children’s play areas. The plans include enhanced public spaces, landscaping, parking, and 400 cycle spaces. McLaren has committed to reducing the project’s embodied carbon by repurposing some existing structures, targeting an overall carbon reduction of 72.5%. Patrick Joyce, development director at McLaren Living, said: “We very much look forward to delivering on our plans for Clarendon Road and bringing forward a new mixed-use urban quarter for Watford. It is an exciting opportunity to revitalise this part of Clarendon Road and to deliver much-needed homes, workspace, a new garden square, and public realm on an underutilised town centre site. We will continue to work with Watford Borough Council, the local community, and stakeholders as we bring our proposals forward.” As part of the development, McLaren will contribute £3.5 million through Section 106 agreements. Hertfordshire Police Constabulary vacated the site in February 2024. Details regarding construction timelines and costs have yet to be disclosed. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Providing user demanded performance, MILWAUKEE® introduces the next generation of deep cut band saws, the M18 FUEL™ Deep Cut Band Saw Gen 2 and the M18 FUEL™ Dual-Trigger Deep Cut Band Saw with ONE-KEY™, delivering an overall better cutting performance for users. The next generation of band saws are the lightest in their class, weighing up to 1.4 kg lighter than our previous generations and are 30% faster than the previous generation. With an enhanced handle design for overhead cuts, the new band saws provide comfort for users to deliver decreased fatigue and allow them to stay more productive on the job site. The POWERSTATE™ brushless motor delivers maximum power and best in class cutting experience. Providing users with up to 78 cuts per battery charge on a M18™ REDLITHIUM™ 5.0 Ah Battery Pack, the band saws eliminate multiple trips to the charger onsite, increasing productivity. Supplied with 4-step speed mode and variable speed trigger, the band saws feature a new trigger design allowing for better control over the speed of cut on a variety of metals. The tool-free adjustable shoe helps guide the user through a straighter cut, and an LED work light illuminates their application for increased visibility. The band saws are equipped with features to enhance the control of their cut while maximising their cutting experience throughout the day. Delivering additional safety and control, the M18 FUEL™ Deep Cut Band Saw Gen 2 and M18 FUEL™ Dual-Trigger Deep Cut Band Saw with ONE-KEY™ provides enhanced safety to onsite cutting. Equipped with cut-stop technology, the tool will shut off automatically after the cut and an integrated blade cover protects users from injury by preventing any access to the blade, increasing user safety. MILWAUKEE® is committed to improving productivity by providing performance-driven and trade-focused solutions so users can perform an entire day’s work on one battery system. The M18 FUEL™ Band Saws is fully compatible with the entire M18™ line, now offering more than 315 solutions. *M18 FUEL™ is engineered for the most demanding tradesmen in the world. Delivering unrivalled performance, all M18 FUEL™ products feature three MILWAUKEE®-exclusive innovations—The POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor, REDLITHIUM™ Battery Pack and REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence Hardware and Software—that deliver unmatched power, run-time, and durability on the job site. Simply put, M18 FUEL™ tools are the most powerful 18V cordless tools in their class. Specifications M18 FUEL™ Deep Cut Band Saw Gen 2 M18 FBS127-502C Kit Includes: (1) M18 FUEL™ Deep Cut Band Saw Gen 2, (2) M18 B5 Battery Packs, (1) M12-18 FC Charger, (1) Kitbox M18 FUEL™ Dual-Trigger Deep Cut Band Saw with ONE-KEY™ M18 FBS127DO-0C Kit Includes: (1) M18 FUEL™ Deep Cut Band Saw Gen 2, (1) Kitbox Perfect Match: M18 FUEL™ Deep Cut Band Saw Gen 2 M18 FUEL™ Dual-Trigger Deep Cut Band Saw with ONE-KEY™ (48390601) To find out more M18 FUEL™ Band Saws, see video footage of it in action or find your nearest store, please visit www.milwaukeetool.euVisit Milwaukee Tool UK’s Instagram and LinkedIn for further information Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Work will complete this spring on a multi-million-pound state-of-the-art incinerator at Newton Aycliffe in County Durham that will process up to 10,500 tonnes of clinical and hazardous waste each year and transform it into a low-carbon heat source for local businesses. The 75,000 sq ft facility at Merchant Park is being development managed by INDEV Projects on behalf of Fornax Environmental Solutions and Gresham House, which is an £8.3billion asset management fund. Yorkshire based Tate Consulting is providing full mechanical and electrical design services on the project and GMI Construction Group is the principal contractor. The high-temperature treatment facility, which is set to create more than 17 highly skilled jobs, will be operated by Fornax Environmental Solutions and will process waste that cannot be sent to landfill, recycled or go to other types of energy-from-waste plants. The site’s innovative technology will produce a zero-carbon district heating scheme within Merchant Park. The development is part of an initial £15million investment, excluding the incinerator installation, which will be undertaken as a second phase by renewable heat specialist, Nordheat. The site is set to open in 2026 and has been designed to comfortably meet and surpass new regulations on emission controls, which will be introduced later this year. Currently there are only three high-temperature treatment facilities for clinical and hazardous waste in the UK. Once the site is operational, it will process all types of clinical waste from hospitals, nursing homes, dental clinics, GP surgeries and veterinary practices. It will also be used for certain items of hazardous waste which could include electrical items, DIY related materials and certain beauty products. Ray Cavanagh, who is a director at Yorkshire headquartered Tate Consulting, said: “This is the first thermal treatment project that we’ve worked on, but it’s a perfect fit for us because it plays to our strengths of adding value to pioneering and high-quality developments that are environmentally astute, highly sustainable and institutionally funded. “We have designed and will be implementing cutting-edge solutions at every stage of the project spanning the mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) services, a highly advanced sprinkler system as well as integrating the site into a 5.6MW district heating system.” Nick McTague, from INDEV Projects, which is a joint venture between Tate Group and Generate Real Estate, said: “Once complete, the facility will boast the latest energy-from-waste technology, which will be complemented by a wide range of green credentials. “The whole building will be highly insulated and constructed with low or zero volatile organic compound materials, Forest Stewardship Council-certified wood, some recycled steel, eco-friendly paint, solar panels and a sustainable urban drainage system. All this will combine to create one of the most advanced, high-temperature treatment facilities of its kind in Europe.” Other companies in the development team include architects, ASA, structural engineering practice, Burrows Graham and quantity surveyor and employer’s agent, KAM. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Global real estate firm Avison Young UK has been appointed by the University of Kent as a strategic advisor to bring its Northern Land Holdings in Canterbury to market. Spanning 97 hectares (240 acres) the site has the potential to deliver around 2,000 new homes, commercial uses and supporting social infrastructure. The appointment builds on a five-year partnership between Avison Young and the University of Kent. Avison Young is progressing the land through the Local Plan process and is now seeking developers or housebuilders to provide private and affordable housing and commercial development, alongside community uses including schools and open space. Expanding Canterbury’s footprint, development will create a sustainable extension of the historic city. Releasing underutilised land north of the University campus, development would support Canterbury City Council’s District Local Plan for urgently required housing. Canterbury City Council has identified an annual Local Housing Need for 1,120 new properties. Unlocking opportunities for development and new homes in Kent, the site offers potential to boost inward investment in the region, fostering growth for future generations living and working in Canterbury. Repurposing the Northern Land Holdings would also boost reinvestment into the University of Kent’s core educational offer. Backed by the Canterbury City Council, the University is recognised as an integral job creator in the area with educational investment feeding through into wider areas of the local economy. Barney Hillsdon, Principal, Managing Director, Land and Development, Avison Young UK, said: Northern Land Holdings offers exceptional potential for developers and Kent alike. Repurposing it will ensure Canterbury’s long-term financial sustainability by attracting investment and fostering a new community. Its vast space presents a unique opportunity to deliver diverse housing, commercial properties, and social infrastructure, supporting national and local growth goals. Trevor Pereira, Commercial and Facilities Director, University of Kent, said: “By freeing up underused land to north of our campus, the University of Kent can support Canterbury City Council’s District Local Plan by providing space for additional and urgently required housing. Any future development would be done sustainably and responsibly, with full consideration given to striking the balance between net biodiversity gain and infrastructural improvements.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
While construction often brings to mind images of building sites and hard hats, the industry is powered by a vast network of professionals working behind the scenes to bring developments to life. This International Women’s Day, Harron Homes is celebrating the women who play crucial roles in shaping its success—driving projects forward, supporting customers, and ensuring seamless operations. With 18 years of experience in the industry, Kirsty Wilson plays a vital role in Harron Homes’ design team. She is responsible for creating site layouts that balance viability with compliance, ensuring each development meets the highest standards. Kirsty attributes her success to early mentorship from a female architect and notes the increasing presence of women on construction sites. “Gender equality should be the norm,” says Kirsty. “One of the biggest barriers for women is awareness. Young women may not realise the variety of roles available in construction. “To women who are interested in the construction side, don’t be put off by it being male-dominated. People no longer make a big deal about women being on site, you’ll find the majority are friendly and helpful, regardless of gender.” Stacy Law transitioned into the construction industry two years ago after a diverse career in operations and business development. As a PA to the Managing Directors and Office Manager at Harron’s Yorkshire office, Stacy ensures smooth operations and provides essential support to the leadership team. “I’ve seen a real shift in attitudes towards women in construction,” Stacy shares. “Traditionally, it was seen as a male-dominated field, but there is now a greater emphasis on diversity and inclusion. Implementing clear policies and providing equal growth opportunities will further accelerate progress and inclusion.” Her advice to women considering a career in housebuilding? “Go for it! There are so many departments to start your career in beyond the building site, from finance to design to customer service, and the industry is full of opportunities.” With 18 years in property and seven in construction, Laura Higginbottom ensures that every homebuyer receives top-tier support as an Assistant Customer Service Manager. She values the strong support network within the company and believes social media has played a significant role in highlighting the achievements of women in the industry. “I’ve always felt supported and heard at Harron,” Laura explains. “The company hires the right person for the role, which has naturally led to women stepping into leadership positions. The more we promote women in senior roles, the more we can inspire others to follow.” Like Kirsty, Stacy feels a wider knowledge of the various career paths could encourage girls to join the industry. “Social media is doing a lot to showcase women in the industry, but promoting those available career paths from a much younger age could encourage women to explore construction a lot sooner. Some people are too shy to approach certain roles in life so by offering the information initially it might spark a positive conversation.” While the construction industry has made significant progress in gender equality, Kirsty, Stacy, and Laura agree that increasing representation, fostering an inclusive workplace, and promoting diverse career opportunities are key steps forward. Group Operations Director, Sarah Marsden added, “At Harron Homes, we are committed to supporting women in the workplace and celebrating their contributions. As Harron’s inaugural Group Operations Director, I’ve been given an amazing opportunity to not only leave my own mark on the company, but to encourage other women aspiring to do the same. Success comes from the hard work of people across every part of the business. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the women behind the scenes who make it all happen.” For more information on Harron Homes please visit https://www.harronhomes.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
